Some of my latest blogs in the health care reform series talk about ACO’s and Medical Homes. This concept is getting closer to implementation and there are still many debates on what they actually are. Some experts say a Medical Home is part of an ACO, whereas other experts are separating them as two entities. There are alternative pilot programs called Pioneer ACO models. You can choose to participate in one of two ACO’s with different reimbursement models. Is your head spinning yet or did you read the 434 pages of the bill that was recently released?
Sure, the goal is to improve health care for patients while lowering costs. But why does it have to be so complicated? Physicians and hospitals are all in agreement to improve quality of care and keep costs down. Can Physicians be assured that by joining an ACO or Medical Home that this will really happen? Medicare has already underestimated the startup cost of ACO. Will this cost the physician in the long run?
Hospitals and private practice managers have a lot of work cut out for them over the next couple years. There are many more questions than there are answers. Personally, I like the concept idea of a Medical Home. This concept has nothing to do with money or incentives. It’s common sense. I’ve been lucky to have 1st hand knowledge of a private practice that works like a Medical Home already. This specialty practice coordinates care with the primary physicians, and any other ancillary physicians for their patients for the time they are treating the patient.
This concept isn’t new; it’s their Standard of Care. The ACP and other medical organizations should be at the helm of getting this type of process in place for all physicians, this first step might be the most beneficial and economical way of healthcare reform.
To read more about ACO’s & Medical Homes click here: http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/jun/07/health-care-reform-debate-surrounds-accountable-ca/
Is your hospital or practice anticipating joining an ACO?
Do you have any comments on health care reform?
Michele White
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