Incorporating Digital Technology In Value-Based Care
The evolution of reimbursement in healthcare has been progressively leading to a paradigm shift from paying for volume to paying for value. Under a Value-Based Care delivery model, care providers are rewarded based on improving patient outcomes. This differs from fee-for-service models in which providers are paid based on the quantity of services they provide to their patients (1). As value-based reimbursements are more widely adopted, digital technology will play a big role in helping to move the needle forward (2). Let’s take a closer look at 3 areas where innovation is making its mark in strategies for value-based care:
Digital patient engagement
If the overall goal of value-based care is to improve outcomes, then patients must be given the necessary tools to take their health into their own hands (3). Applications for patient engagement and remote monitoring are keeping consumers educated on their care plans and promoting adherence to those plans on a constant basis. These tools have become specifically beneficial in the case of chronic disease management and provide timely interventions when applied in a mental health setting. Additionally, these patient applications are emerging as key in pre/post-operative care settings, helping to reduce readmissions (2). These digital models also expand the reach of health systems, providing at home care options for both new and existing patients who may have previously had challenges with accessibility.
Overall population health management
Technology is giving us access to more data on patients than ever before. Patient applications can now collect data actively via assessment forms, or passively via connected devices. Wearables are a great source for basic tracking like fitness activity, but can also be used to monitor important vitals that may be indications of existing or developing conditions (3). All this data flows seamlessly into EHR systems, where interoperability is an option, for a holistic view of patients and all associated activity. Insights gleaned from technology in this way inform population risk stratification and will play an increasingly larger role in improving overall population health (2).
Transition, coordination, and care management
The patient experience is not just a destination, but a journey. Especially in complex care situations, this can involve a variety of physicians, specialists, care givers, care support teams…the list could go on and on. Digital solutions are keeping everyone involved in the patient care ecosystem connected for end-to-end patient experiences. Establishing this alignment is key to true value-based care (2). Tools for referral management are also available to help patients and physicians alike navigate in-network options for care, assuring costs are kept at a minimum where possible and transitions between care providers are smooth (3).
As health organizations look to make the shift to value-based reimbursement, digital technology is prepped to help and poised to enable truly connected care (3). If you are looking for a partner with deep expertise in leveraging virtual care solutions to support your initiatives, look no further. Contact Mozzaz, today.
References
(1) What Is Value-Based Care. (2017). NEJM Catalyst. Retrieved from https://catalyst.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/CAT.17.0558
(2) Investing in Value-Based Care. (2019). Klas Research. Retrieved from https://klasresearch.com/blog/investing-in-value-based-care/577
(3) 5 Ways Technology Will Enable Value-Based Care in 2020 and Beyond. (2019). Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/joeharpaz/2019/12/09/5-ways-technology-will-enable-value-based-care-in-2020/?sh=419b64935113
