Methods
The BPCI initiative is comprised of four broadly defined models of care, which link payments for the multiple services that beneficiaries receive during an episode of care. For example, Sabino Canyon’s focus is on medical non-infectious orthopedic and major joint replacement of the lower extremity. Under the initiative, organizations enter into payment arrangements that include financial and performance accountability for episodes of care. These models may lead to higher quality and more coordinated care at a lower cost to Medicare.
Results
By participating in the BPCI program, we were able to reduce the average length of stay by five days for all payers. We also implemented 90-day tracking for participants to reduce re-hospitalization. These participants became rehab candidates versus hospice patients.
Our goal is threefold with this program:
- To manage the length of stay with a continuum of care.
- To reintegrate participants back into the community.
- To track participants for 90 days, by ensuring they have follow-up appointments and continue to function in the community with participant education.
By providing these services, we help to reduce the cost of healthcare, improve the patient experience and better the lives of those we serve.
By Dora Alvarez, COTA/L Therapy Program Manager, Sabino Canyon Rehabilitation & Care Center, Tucson, AZ