A first-of-its kind health plan that rewards doctors for keeping patients healthy, rather than just doing expensive procedures, lowered health care spending and improved the quality of patient care for the fourth straight year, according to a new study. The analysis by researchers at Harvard Medical School and published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows spending for patients in Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts' Alternative Quality Contract grew 10 percent slower than for patients in traditional plans. The alternative contract pays providers a set budget to take care of patients, rather than paying for every procedure and service -- regardless of outcome.
In a social media landscape shaped by hashtags, algorithms, and viral posts, nurse leaders must decide: Will they let the narrative spiral, or can they adapt and join the conversation?
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