OnSiteClinics.Org

Pay-for-Performance (What’s old is new – or at least updated)

Highmark (a Blue Cross/Blue Shield corporation) reported that its Quality Blue program has demonstrated “clear patterns of improved patient safety and clinical care for our members.”   They cite data for things like mammography screening rates, diminished Central Line Associated Bloodstream (CLAB) Infections, and reductions in cases of MRSA at Highmark contracted hospitals and providers.   They apparently started their pay-for-performance program in 2002.  The savings on CLAB (where they feel they prevented more than 1,500 infections) were projected at up to $44.8 Million in dollars and up to 384 lives.

In the on-site industry, we call this “narrow network contracting” and have likewise been doing this for more than ten years.   But this press release of their data just demonstrates the value of making sure you are contracting with the best providers in your area – not simply using the established network your insurance company provides.   As an employer with a 1,000 or more lives you are responsible for you should have data and power – both should be used wisely when negotiating these contracts.  There is a lot at stake, for the bottom line and for your employees’ well-being.