Without Blue plan, P4P stumbling in Arizona

While pay-for-performance programs are proliferating in some states, they're stumbling in Arizona, according to a new report. The report, by HealthLeaders-Interstudy, found that until state leader Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona kicks off P4P programs, the programs launched by less-dominant competitors aren't going to get a lot of traction. True, it's not as though the other players aren't headed this way: for example, UnitedHealth and Aetna also offer programs. UnitedHealth, for its part, is offering incentives to doctors who meet general criteria. Aetna, through the Bridges to Excellence coalition, is offering specialty care incentive programs focused on diabetes and cardiac care. Until the Blue plan leaps in, however, such programs are "a tough sell," according to analyst and report author Heather Wicks. "Support from area physicians [is] minimal, as some do not see how pay-for-performance improves patient care."

To learn more about these programs:
- read this Healthcare Finance News piece

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