BIP Spring 2025

which rewards the quantity of care delivered — such as tests, procedures and imaging — without necessarily considering outcomes, quality or patient satisfaction. The value-based healthcare model, especially when coupled with ACOs, alters the reimburse ment model by shifting focus to quality of care and patient satisfaction. Add to this the fact that payments are generally bundled rather than itemized for each individual test, service or procedure, which is characteristic of the fee-for-service model. Lastly, value-based healthcare models tend to lower the overall cost of care, largely attributable to tighter medical management protocols and stronger relation ships between patients and pri

mary care doctors. In short, fewer billable services and lower prices for care lead to the potential for hefty healthcare cost reductions. Another key change is the growing reliance on electronic medical records. While the roll out of EMR technology has been uneven and slow, adoption is steadily increasing. Providers are recognizing its benefits in improv ing efficiency and standardizing care delivery, making it a critical component of value-based healthcare. In summary, value-based healthcare aims to reduce hospi tal admissions and lengths of stay, avoid unnecessary emergency room visits, lower the cost of care, adopt a more holistic and collaborative approach to patient care, and use EMR.

For their part, patients will need to seek care within more tightly managed ACO networks, rather than the prevailing in demnity or PPO arrangements, and build a strong relationship

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The value-based healthcare model, especially when coupled with ACOs, alters the reimbursement model by shifting focus to quality of care and patient satisfaction.

with their primary care doctor. This proactive approach should inevitably lower healthcare costs, improve outcomes and enhance overall health and well-being.