Patient-Centered Medical Homes

Categories: Change Incentives to Promote Better Care

Partnering with and providing incentives to physician organizations, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) implemented initiative frameworks to guide the difficult work to re-tool practices so that they can function as patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs).  PCMHs are intended to transform the care delivery model and promote quality, efficiency and coordination.  Clinical teams at PCMHs manage patients' healthcare needs, work with members to identify personal health goals and coordinate care provided by specialists and healthcare facilities.  BCBSM uses its Physician Group Incentive Program (PGIP) to catalyze physician organizations to reorganize their clinical practices to conform to the PCMH model of care delivery.  In 2008, roughly $30 million of the $50 million expected to be distributed by the PGIP will go to physician organizations that are assisting practices to implement the PCMH approach.