Michigan Patient-Centered Medical Homes show positive results

In the first six months of 2010, the Patient-Centered Medical Home program of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) showed measurable results in improved quality and cost management, according to the health insurer.

Analysis of January to June 2010 claims data show PCMH practices have a 7.4% lower rate of adult high-tech radiology usage than non-PCMH practices, and a per member per month cost that is 4.3% lower.

PCMH practices have a 2.8% lower rate of adult emergency department (ED) visits than non-PCMH practices and a 7% lower rate of pediatric ED visits.

In the BCBSM Patient-Centered Medical Home model, physicians receive an enhanced fee for office visits. The program is the largest in the nation, with 1,800 designated doctors in 500 practices across the state. BCBSM says 5,000 doctors have been working toward designation, which could affect 2 million Michigan residents.