Physician Alignment and Clinical Integration

Payers, employers, and the government are implementing new payment models and incentive programs to actively drive the health care delivery system to produce safe, high-quality care at a lower cost. This shift in reimbursement, from a focus on volume to a focus on value, is compelling hospitals and health care systems to improve coordination across the continuum of care. One approach to achieve this alignment between delivery system and provider stakeholders is through clinical integration. This chapter explores the rationale for clinical integration, required elements and infrastructure, and action steps to ensure successful physician alignment.