While payers and providers are usually in the spotlight when it comes to accountable care, the most successful models will be the ones that place a strong focus on patient accountability. More and more frequently patients are selecting doctors with the best outcomes, asking proactive questions, and taking an active role in their lifestyle and behaviors. Empowering patients with the support and tools to be responsible for and more involved in their own health is critical to improving outcomes and reducing costs as part of any accountable care environment.
Currently, patients navigate the medical system to achieve the best outcome in the shortest amount of time, but physicians are incentivized to provide more services. If the decision-making process of the physician and patient are not fully aligned, then it is not reasonable to deploy a strategy focused solely on stimulating greater accountability in the patient. An alignment of goals for the highest quality and most financially efficient care can help to ensure patients are never in a position to make a health decision against the advice of their physician.
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