Maryland Department of Health issued the following announcement on May 18.
Key Element Of The Maryland Model—Maryland Primary Care Program—To Launch January 2019
Program Supports the Delivery of Advanced Primary Care Allowing Providers Play an Increasingly Important Role in Improving Health Outcomes
Earlier this week, Governor Larry Hogan, together with the Maryland Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), announced the federal approval of Maryland’s Total Cost of Care All-Payer Model, known as the “Maryland Model” contract. This innovative approach to health care provider payment is unique to Maryland and made possible via a contract between CMS and the state. The announcement also includes approval of the Maryland Primary Care Program (MDPCP), which will launch in January 2019.
The MDPCP is a voluntary program, open to all eligible Maryland Primary Care providers, that supports the delivery of advanced primary care throughout the state and allows providers to play an increasingly important role in improving health outcomes, while reducing unnecessary Emergency Department and hospital visits.
The MDPCP adds important care management tools for the primary care providers in Maryland, strengthening and transforming the delivery of Advanced Primary Care and Care Management as well as value-based bonuses. The program is also open to newly formed Care Transformation Organizations (CTOs) that provide Care Management support to practices.
“The Maryland Primary Care Program is a tremendous benefit to both patients and providers in Maryland and will ensure the highest level of care for patients who have the greatest need,” says Dr. Howard Haft, deputy secretary for Public Health Services at the Maryland Department of Health.
The Request for Applications (RFA) for this program will be posted by CMS in early June 2018.
In anticipation of the release of a formal RFA for MDPCP in the upcoming weeks, the Maryland Department of Health will be hosting a series of educational sessions to help potential applicants prepare for the program. For more information on MDPCP and a schedule of upcoming events, please visit our website.
Original source can be found here.