Health Affairs: VBC participation and value-based care

The corporatization of primary care is transforming the industry, raising questions about the impact on personalized patient care. 🤨#Marketing, with a focus on promoting hybrid models that combine independent practice strengths with corporate efficiencies will position these new models as the future of primary care. For more insights, read the full article on MedCity News. 📰 #primarycare #geriatrics #healthcare #patientexperience

I agree with these observations and recommendations, but would further add that Public Health/Preventive Health should also be considered in any realignment of our health care system. In addition, I would also emphasize that Internal Medicine/Internal Medicine/Pediatrics, Pediatrics, and OB/GYN providers should also be considered Primary Care Providers for more specific populations. This country spends way too much money on treating conditions, many of which are preventable and our health care system is way too fragmented and this leads to inefficiency and increased administrative costs.

Hospitalist Diary 3: Navigating the Challenges of Geriatric Care: A Heartfelt Approach As a hospitalist dedicated to the care of our most vulnerable patients, I frequently encounter geriatric individuals who have been admitted for extended periods. During these stays, it’s not uncommon for patients to become frustrated, leading to refusals to eat or cooperate with treatments like wearing a BiPAP mask. These moments can be disheartening for patients and their families, who sometimes feel compelled to accommodate these refusals out of love and compassion. However, I firmly believe that our role as healthcare providers is to engage rather than accept these refusals at face value. Each patient carries a unique story, and behind their resistance often lies deeper frustrations—whether it’s discomfort, fear, or a loss of control over their lives. Taking the time to listen and understand their feelings can significantly impact their hospital experience. One effective strategy I employ is to offer various meal options tailored to their preferences. This simple yet impactful act empowers patients to make choices about their nutrition, rekindling a sense of agency that is often diminished in the hospital setting. When patients feel they have a say in their care, it not only encourages them to eat but also fosters a stronger sense of independence. Moreover, engaging patients in their treatment can be a source of motivation. Explaining the benefits of wearing a BiPAP mask and how it can improve their comfort and health may alleviate some of their fears. Building this rapport is crucial in helping them feel safe and understood. Caring for geriatric patients requires the same level of patience and empathy that we apply to pediatric care. Just as children may resist treatment due to fear or uncertainty, our elderly patients deserve that same level of attention and compassion. As we navigate these challenges, let us commit to being strong advocates for our patients. By paying extra attention to their needs and frustrations, we can guide them gently toward the path of recovery. Together, we can make a profound difference in their hospital experience, reminding them that they are not alone on this journey. #GeriatricCare #PatientAdvocacy #EmpathyInHealthcare #Hospitalist #CompassionateCare Zydus Hospitals

Did you know nearly half of healthcare organizations increased their use of locum tenens providers in 2022, and this trend continues to rise in 2024? The demand for locum tenens is especially high in specialties like pediatrics, where timely care is crucial. In fact, locums help prevent the significant revenue loss that can occur when physician roles are unfilled. The average physician generates $2.4 million in net revenue per year, and without a replacement, that revenue is lost https://lnkd.in/gkfNYtS4 Moreover, locums ensure that hospitals and clinics can provide uninterrupted care, minimizing burnout and allowing full-time staff to maintain a healthy work-life balance. https://lnkd.in/gZQcyYyQ With the ongoing physician shortage and increased patient demand, locums are becoming an essential resource for healthcare systems, enabling facilities to stay fully staffed during peak seasons like the holidays. Do you know how long it typically takes to fill a pediatric position permanently vs. with a locum tenens provider? The difference is striking—CompHealth can help bridge the gap while ensuring kids get the care they need without delay. Interested in how locums can benefit your healthcare facility? Let’s connect! #LocumTenens #HealthcareStaffing #Pediatrics #PhysicianShortage #HealthcareSolutions #TemporaryStaffing #ChildrensHealth #LocumCare #HealthcareTrends

🌟 The Results Are In !! 🌟 Achieving the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) recognition from the NCQA is one of the highest honors in the healthcare industry. This prestigious designation signifies a commitment to quality, patient-centered care, and continuous improvement. It’s not just a badge of honor; it’s a testament to a practice's dedication of providing exceptional healthcare services. At the Always More Health Firm, we understand the rigorous standards and dedication required to attain PCMH recognition. Our expert team specializes in guiding healthcare practices through the intricacies of the PCMH process, ensuring that every aspect of care delivery is optimized for the best patient outcomes. Here’s why partnering with Always More Health Firm is both helpful and rewarding: ✅ Expertise and Experience: Our team brings years of experience and in-depth knowledge of the PCMH standards, helping practices navigate the complexities with ease. ✅ Tailored Support: We offer customized solutions that address the unique needs of each practice, ensuring that the transition to a PCMH model is smooth and efficient. ✅ Enhanced Patient Care: By achieving PCMH recognition, practices can improve patient engagement, satisfaction, and overall health outcomes. ✅ Competitive Edge: Practices recognized as PCMH distinguish themselves in the healthcare field by receiving higher reimbursements, drawing in more patients, and building a strong reputation for excellence. Join the ranks of top-tier healthcare providers who’ve earned a reputation of excellence. Let’s work together to elevate the standard of care and make a meaningful impact on patient lives. Remember, there's ALWAYS MORE that we can do. Visit our website for contact details. #HealthcareExcellence #PCMHRecognition #AlwaysMoreHealthFirm #PatientCenteredCare #HealthcareInnovation #PrimaryCare #Pediatrics Feel free to reach out to us for more information on how we can assist your medical practice in achieving this prestigious recognition! 💼📈

The Dangerous Trend of Corporate-Aligned #Nephrology: A Call for Ethical Patient Care In recent years, an unsettling trend has emerged within the nephrology field, where SOME #nephrologists, often contracted by Large Dialysis Organizations like Fresenius Medical Care and DaVita Kidney Care, seem to prioritize corporate objectives over patient outcomes. While these #LDOs promote innovation and patient-centric care, their underlying goal remains clear—maximizing profits, sometimes at the expense of human well-being. This shift in priorities has led to concerning practices that compromise the quality of care for patients undergoing #dialysis, an already challenging treatment with profound physical and #psychological impacts. Nephrologists aligned with LDOs often face pressure to conform to corporate agendas, resulting in decisions that may not fully align with the best interests of the patient. This raises serious ethical concerns, as the primary duty of a physician should be to provide holistic, patient-centered care and DO NO HARM. Instead, these doctors may follow protocols that serve to enhance profitability rather than improve patient outcomes. This is particularly dangerous in a field like nephrology, where patients rely on their doctors to manage complex and life-sustaining treatments. One of the most glaring examples of this problem is the continued use of "wave rounds," where doctors rush through patient visits to maximize the number of consultations within a given time. Even in Home #Hemodialysis (#HHD) clinics, where monthly visits should be thorough and personalized, the care often remains fragmented. This rushed approach leads to unproductive consultations, where patient concerns are not adequately addressed, perpetuating a model of care that prioritizes efficiency over effectiveness. Medical Malpractice: Ethical Violations in Decision-Making 🔹 Doctors making unethical decisions regarding patient employment: Nephrologists may downplay the severe physical and psychological toll that dialysis takes on a patient, advising them to continue working despite the overwhelming challenges. 🔹 Dismissal of patient concerns: When patients question medical decisions or express concerns, they are often met with defensiveness or outright dismissal. This is not only a breach of bedside manner but also a significant ethical violation, as it undermines the patient's autonomy and trust in their healthcare provider. The Human Cost of Corporate-Driven Nephrology This trend is particularly alarming as more patients "crash" into dialysis, often without adequate preparation or understanding of the treatment. The lack of a holistic, patient-centered approach can lead to poorer health outcomes, decreased quality of life, and a loss of trust in the medical system. David Perchinsky, Ed.D Jeffrey Gold Charles Bearden PA-CPTC

Continuing to look at the benefits of including caregivers in hospitals, the excellent review, Caregiver Engagement Enhances Outcomes Among Randomized Control Trials of Transitional Care Interventions A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis by Kristen Levoy, Eleanor Rivera,Molly McHugh, Alexandra Hanlon, Karen Hirschman, & Mary Naylor recommends that acute care hospitals actively involve caregivers in the care process, particularly in discharge planning and education, while also providing support and resources to address their needs. Partnering with family caregivers can enhance the quality of care and improve outcomes for patients transitioning from hospital to home. What are the key components? 1. Active Participation in Care: The article emphasizes that caregivers should be actively involved in the care process during hospitalization. This includes participating in discussions about the patient's care plan, treatment options, and discharge planning. Engaging caregivers as partners can enhance communication and ensure that they are well-informed about the patient's needs and care requirements . 2. Inclusion in Discharge Planning: Caregivers should be included in discharge planning meetings to ensure they understand the post-discharge care plan, medication management, and follow-up appointments. This involvement helps prepare caregivers for their role in supporting the patient at home and reduces the likelihood of confusion or miscommunication after discharge . 3. Education and Training: The article suggests that hospitals should provide education and training for caregivers to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage care at home effectively. This could include training on medication administration, recognizing signs of complications, and understanding the healthcare system. 4. Support Systems for Caregivers: The authors recommend that acute care hospitals establish support systems for caregivers, including access to resources, counseling, and peer support groups. This support can help caregivers cope with the emotional and physical demands of caregiving, ultimately benefiting both the caregiver and the patient. 5. Recognition of Caregiver Needs: The article highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing the specific needs of caregivers during the hospital stay. This includes assessing their concerns, providing them with information, and ensuring they feel valued as part of the healthcare team. 6. Policy and System Changes: The authors advocate for healthcare policies that promote caregiver engagement in acute care settings. This may involve creating guidelines for involving caregivers in care processes and ensuring that healthcare providers are trained to recognize the importance of caregiver contributions. https://bit.ly/3CSiajd Really this article makes the case for The Ontario Caregiver Organization Essential Care Partner Practices in Hospitals https://lnkd.in/gFJ-_EXf

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is set to release the final rule for the Medicaid and CHIP Enrollment regulation on May 10, 2024. While no FFS timeliness standards will be implemented in this final ruling, CMS intends to consider proposing them in the future based on public input gathered during the proposal phase. By deferring the FFS timeliness standards, CMS will monitor and gain insights from the standards being established in Medicaid managed care. This alignment aims to improve coordination between the two delivery systems, covering various aspects like appointment wait times, secret shopper surveys, and reporting requirements for services such as outpatient behavioral health, primary care, and obstetrics gynecology. For detailed insights on upcoming changes and to stay informed, visit: https://okt.to/3SILEo Myers and Stauffer is at the forefront of providing essential expertise and guidance to states as they navigate the significant impact of the upcoming rule changes. Stay tuned for further updates on our analysis of the final rule.

🌟 Rethinking Mental Health Care in Long-Term Skilled Nursing Facilities 🌟 As we continue to advocate for improved mental health care, it’s crucial to address a growing concern within long-term skilled nursing facilities. Traditionally, these facilities have faced scrutiny over the use of antipsychotics, leading to stringent regulations and even penalties for doctors. While the intention behind reducing reliance on these medications is commendable—aiming to protect patients from unnecessary treatments—the unintended consequences have been significant. The reality we’re facing is that these regulations may be inadvertently hindering comprehensive and effective mental health care. Many residents in these facilities have complex, co-existing conditions that include mental health disorders requiring nuanced treatment strategies, which can include the use of antipsychotics. By penalizing the use of these medications, we risk creating an environment where physicians are overly cautious, potentially leading to under-treatment of patients who genuinely need these drugs to manage their mental health conditions effectively. The challenge lies in finding a balance that ensures patient safety and quality of care without compromising the treatment needs of those with significant mental health issues. It’s imperative that we look towards solutions that: 1. Provide comprehensive training and resources for facility staff on the complexities of mental health disorders. 2. Establish clearer guidelines that allow for the judicious use of necessary medications under strict supervision. 3. Foster a holistic approach that includes alternative therapies and personalized care plans to enhance mental health care. Let’s advocate for reforms that truly understand the needs of all patients and ensure that our approach to mental health in skilled nursing facilities is as compassionate as it is careful. #MentalHealthAwareness #HealthCareReform #SkilledNursingFacilities

In the dynamic world of healthcare, telehealth has emerged not just as a technological advancement but as a strategic necessity. It not only redefines service delivery but also optimizes financial health for healthcare institutions. Access Pediatric minimizes the dependence on extensive physical infrastructure, directly impacting and reducing overhead expenses. This not only makes healthcare more accessible to patients but also drastically reduces missed appointments, enhancing overall service delivery efficiency. According to the American Medical Association, telehealth is instrumental in reducing patient care costs by up to 20%, primarily through effective chronic disease management and minimizing hospital readmissions. Enhanced patient engagement, a hallmark of our telehealth offerings, is increasingly crucial in today’s reimbursement models. This increased satisfaction leads to better health outcomes which, in turn, drive financial benefits for doctors. It’s about more than staying competitive! it’s about reimagining healthcare delivery in an economically viable and patient-focused manner. #Telehealth #HealthcareInnovation #ROI #carecosts #pediatric #efficiency