Physical therapists who have insight on transforming clinical practices can now share their insights with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) reports that the agency hopes to shape future policy by reviewing what health care providers have done to meet the aim of “better care and better health at lower costs.”
CMS defines practice transformation as “a process that results in observable and measureable changes to practice behavior” around core competencies that include: enhanced access; engaged leadership and quality improvement; business and financial acumen; empanelment and improved patient health outcomes; and patient-centered interactions.
Additional core competencies include: systematic efforts to reduce unnecessary diagnostic testing and procedures; continuous and team-based healing relationships; organized, evidence-based care; approach of practices to maximize engagement of families and patients; and results-linked care.
The APTA news release notes that health care providers who have participated in practice transformation are encouraged to respond to CMS by April 8. CMS states that it may use the information “to test new payment and service delivery models.”
To participate and provide input for this CMS initiative, visit:
http://innovation.cms.gov/initiatives/Transforming-Clinical-Practices.
Source: APTA
