A MD-Value In Prevention study on population health management reveals how a primary care model based on personalized preventive care results in cost savings and better health management within three years.
The study analyzed more than 10,000 MDVIP members and 10,000 control patients.
Here are five observations:
1. MDVIP members exhibited a significant lower rate of emergency room visits and urgent care facility use than control patients.
2. In the first two years of the study, MDVIP members' medical and pharmacy cost trends were higher than those of control patients. By the third year, the expenditures were comparable between the two groups.
3. MDVIP members experienced increasing cost savings in their health plans.
4. Younger patients were more likely to see cost savings by the third year, supporting the argument that prevention saves money.
5. The MDVIP model involves physicians offering annual 60 minute to 90 minute wellness appointments. Focused on preventive health, these visits offer health screenings, diagnostic testing and customized coaching for nutrition and exercise.
"MDVIP is the flag bearer of the goals of healthcare reform relating to enhanced patient-physician relationships focused on preventive care that drive improved outcomes and reduced costs," said Andrea Klemes, DO, chief medical officer, MDVIP.
