The entire American healthcare system is in a state of flux. One of the many changes is the new "accountable care" payment model. Accountable care was introduced as a cost-saving measure in response to rising budget pressure as the baby boom generation begins to enter retirement, adding strain to the already overburdened Medicare system.
Although the ACO initiative is not scheduled to launch until January of 2012, many providers have already begun to adopt the model for Medicare patients as well as those with private insurance. Unfortunately, many experts are concerned that the new structure will reduce not just cost, but also quality of care. In fact, it may even lead to more instances of medical malpractice.
Under the accountable care model, doctors, hospitals and other providers receive bonuses for keeping costs down. In a payment scheme resembling an inverted commission structure, providers who meet certain benchmarks will be permitted to keep a share of whatever savings they generate.
Risk of Cutting Corners
The goal of accountable care is to provide more attention to preventative care and reduce unnecessary procedures. That is certainly a worthy goal. But the revised payment structure may create a financial incentive for doctors to cut corners with patient care by avoiding certain tests and procedures. This could lead to an increase in malpractice cases for missed diagnosis and other health problems associated with inadequate medical treatment.
For anyone who has suffered an injury or illness as a result of a health care provider's negligence, a medical malpractice suit can be an important forum in which to be heard, as well as a way to seek justice and compensation. If you or someone close to has been the victim of medical malpractice, be sure to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible to learn more about your rights and your legal options.
From our law offices in Hackensack and Manhattan, Kirsch Gartenberg Howard LLP has served individuals and businesses across northern New Jersey, including Bergen County, Essex County, Union County, Middlesex County and Passaic County, and the five boroughs of New York City since 1984.
