NYOH recently received designation by Highmark Blue Shield of Northeastern NY (NENY) as a Blue Distinction® Center for Cancer Care, which is part of the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program. By combining nationally consistent quality criteria with locally effective value-based programs, Blue Distinction Centers for Cancer Care deliver maximum value to members battling cancer by aligning health care payments with improved health outcomes. The designation is available for all cancer types and various care settings, including physician groups, cancer centers, hospitals and accountable care organizations (ACOs).
NYOH received the designation by incorporating patient-centered and data-driven practices to better coordinate cancer care and improve quality and safety under a value-based payment model. Blue Distinction Centers for Cancer Care are reimbursed based on how they perform against both quality and cost outcome targets to receive incentives and rewards for better health outcomes – rather than traditional fee-for-service. Care delivery transformation to improve quality and affordability is most successful when accompanied by transformation to a value-based payment model.
“Ensuring the best possible outcome for our patients is our number one priority. We take an individualized treatment approach that is data-driven, leverages the latest innovations in cancer treatment and is what’s best for that patient’s particular circumstance to effectively and safely treat their cancer,” said Dr. Todd Doyle, practice president and practicing radiation oncologist at New York Oncology Hematology. “We are humbled and honored to receive this designation because it aligns with our practice’s culture in putting patients first in their care.”
“Cancer patients are unique, and so is the care that they receive,” said Jennifer Atkins, vice president of network solutions for the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. “Cancer patients often receive different kinds of specialized care in multiple settings with perhaps surgery at a distant medical center but chemotherapy at a local hospital. Medical professionals and facilities designated as Blue Distinction Centers for Cancer Care provide coordinated patient care and communication under a value-based payment model.”
Since 2006, the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program has helped patients find quality specialty care in the areas of bariatric surgery, cancer care, cardiac care, knee and hip replacements, maternity care, spine surgery and transplants while encouraging health care professionals to improve the care they deliver.
For more information about the program and a complete list of designated doctors and medical facilities, please visit www.bcbs.com/bluedistinction.