Five Palliative Care Programs Thriving Amidst Payment Model Challenges

Modern Medicine Network has spotlighted five programs successfully approaching palliative care amidst evolving payment models.

The Medicare Care Choices Model, which began in January 2016, is a demonstration initiative under the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation for patients with advanced cancer, congestive heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who are eligible for Medicare hospice benefits. The study is testing whether allowing concurrent care in hospice leads to additional care coordination, better quality of life, a decrease in hospitalizations and avoidance of preventable health expenditures.

Successfully navigating these waters takes innovation, creativity, and a robust strategy. These traits are consistent among Priority Health, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon, Blue Shield of California, Kaiser Permanente, and Sharp Healtchare. The article details how these programs are succeeding and features perspectives from their leaders. Click here for more.