Oncologists Flock to CMS Bundled Payment Model

A voluntary oncology bundled payment program from CMS has generated heavy interest among oncology providers. As of the beginning of February, more than double the number of expected providers had signed up to participate in the Oncology Care Model (OCM), Archway Health reported. The firm specializes in managing bundled payment programs across care settings.

“The growth and participation among cancer facilities in OCM is a positive sign in the transition to value-based payment and, specifically, bundled payments and the future of healthcare,” said Dave Terry, cofounder and CEO of Archway Health. “The organizations participating in the OCM model are demonstrating a commitment to innovating and improving the quality of care and lessening the financial burden for their patients. They are leading the way in delivering high-value healthcare.”

Prior to the OCM’s launch last July, eight oncology providers had tapped Archway Health to manage their participation. Since then, an additional 10 oncology providers have signed on to have the firm manage them. The OCM-particpating providers include the Cancer & Hematology Centers of Western Michigan; Lancaster General Cancer Institute; Cancer Specialists of North Florida; and Oklahoma Cancer Specialists and Research Institute.

Overall, the OCM has attracted more than 200 oncology providers and includes 17 participating health insurers. Participating providers enter into bundled payment contracts and are accountable for health care costs and patient outcomes during episodes of care in which patients with cancer receive chemotherapy treatment.

“Our institution has always sought new ways to improve patient care while reducing costs,” Dennis Zoet, senior director of business development and operations said, Cancer & Hematology Centers of Western Michigan. “The OCM allows us to do just that within our population of patients battling cancer.”

A HealthPayerIntelligence.com article noted the increasing popularity of bundled payment programs among health care providers. In addition to OCM, CMS recently finalized bundled payment models for orthopedic and cardiac care.

“Private payers that haven’t yet should look to invest in bundled payment models to improve the quality of care and reduce spending,” the website advised. —Jolynn Tumolo