Quality vs. Quantity-based Healthcare Model

One of the biggest and toughest issues facing healthcare today is the disparity between our current healthcare system model, which is driven by volume and quantity of services; and a system that focuses on quality and value based models. In our current system, instead of paying for high quality and value of care, we pay for high volume of care; this means that providers of services make more money by treating a higher number of patients. This system of high volume payment structures does little to provide significant health benefits to the patient. What would happen if Americans paid healthcare providers for the value of their services instead of the quantity of their services?
 
In order for healthcare to transition towards a value-based, patient-centered model, we will need to transition to and implement the following:

• Accountability – for both quality and cost for all providers.
• Transparency – in quality, safety, and cost of services. This would allow physicians and hospitals to focus on the quality and effectiveness of the care they provide, while patients can be more informed about their healthcare options.
• Effectiveness – where patient care is determined on the process, outcome, and quality of services provided.
• Competition – which can lower cost for, and increase availability of high value services.

In the long run, the value-based model of healthcare will increase patient satisfaction and safety, lower the cost of services, and force physicians, institutions, and other providers to increase their quality of care.
 
Visit Ezra Klein’s article in The Washington Post for a closer look at the American healthcare system’s current volume-based model.