Healthcare Affordability & Price Transparency
Expert articles and analysis related to healthcare affordability & price transparency.
AI Summary — Last 30 Days
In the past 30 days, CMS under the Trump administration has accelerated a return to mandatory episode-based reimbursement with the launch of the Transforming Episode Accountability Model (TEAM), signaling a renewed structural emphasis on bundled payment models—including notable 2% discounts for high-volume surgical episodes (LEJR, SHFFT, spinal fusion) and new pressures on hospital alignment and readiness. Concurrently, recent analysis of the Maryland global budget model shows a sustained decrease in hospital utilization compared to other states, spotlighting the longer-term viability and efficiency gains of capitated payment structures at the state level (Health Affairs). The tension between mandatory VBC adoption and hospital financial risk is sharpening, as illustrated by ongoing net losses in the Oncology Care Model despite care efficiencies, highlighting persistent gaps in affordability and incentive alignment that all VBC stakeholders must now navigate (Medscape).
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