HIMSS has released a survey to assess how providers are preparing for the shift to value-based payment models. Providers in all settings can participate in the HIMSS Cost Accounting Survey. The survey will be available through 12/31/2015, with results shared at the HIMSS16 in Las Vegas in February. Individual survey results will remain confidential. Check out our rundown of HIMSS16 conference sessions focused on the industry’s shift to value-based payment models.
The shift from fee-for-service payments to value-based payment models reimburses providers for quality and outcomes versus payment for services of care. HHS intends to tie the majority of Medicare reimbursements to providers to value and quality over the next several years. This includes consolidating the Medicare EHR incentive program (meaningful use), the Value Based Modifier (VBM) Payment program, and parts of the Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS). The HIMSS cost accounting survey looks to gauge provider financial sustainability and understanding as they move to value-based payment reimbursement models.
The survey itself is divided into five parts:
- Demographics
- Cost of healthcare
- Price of healthcare
- Fee for service vs. value-based purchasing
- Pricing transparency
The survey asks providers what kinds of processes, automated systems or cost accounting systems they are using to determine costs. The survey then asks providers about what factors they are using to determine prices and to rate their readiness to transition from fee-based to value-based payment models, including what they will need to transition successfully. Finally, the survey asks providers to about price transparency and whether or not they currently publish or plan to publish their prices.
“HIMSS is eager to gain feedback from healthcare providers through the survey and stands ready to assist in the development of tools that enable them to stay financially sustainable while meeting the healthcare needs of the populations they serve.” said Pamela Jodock, HIMSS senior director, health business solutions. You can learn more on the HIMSS website or take the HIMSS Cost Accounting Survey.