Early Results Show Patient-Centered Medical Homes Drive Quality and Cost Improvements

NEWARK, N.J., Apr 10, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey announced today landmark results for New Jersey’s only comprehensive, state-wide Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) Program. Horizon Healthcare Innovations, the company’s subsidiary, developed the PCMH Program in collaboration with leading primary care doctors and the New Jersey Academy of Family Physicians to increase accountability and coordination to improve patient care and contain costs. The early results show the PCMH model is effective.

The below results compare 2011 preliminary quality and cost trends between 24,000 Horizon BCBSNJ members participating in the medical home program and members not in the program. The findings show that patients within the medical home program are benefiting and the costs are lower. Horizon BCBSNJ has expanded its PCMH Program to cover more than 80,000 members and is developing other accountable care delivery models that will be announced in coming months.

Quality Measures

-- 8% higher rate in improved diabetes control (HbA1c)

-- 6% higher rate in breast cancer screening

-- 6% higher rate in cervical cancer screening

Cost and Utilization Indicators

-- 10% lower cost of care (per member per month)

-- 26% lower rate in emergency room visits

-- 25% lower rate in hospital readmissions

-- 21% lower rate in hospital inpatient admissions

-- 5% higher rate in the use of generic prescriptions

“These ground-breaking results show the power of collaboration between health insurers and health care professionals to improve clinical results for patients at a lower cost,” said Dr. Richard Popiel, President and Chief Operating Officer of Horizon Healthcare Innovations.

more...
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/early-results-show-patient-centered-medical-homes-drive-quality-and-cost-improvements-2012-04-10