In value-based care (VBC), clear attribution is foundational. It defines accountability, incentivizes alignment, and drives outcomes. Yet, building effective attribution models can be challenging. In our summer webinar series, experts Keith Passwater (Havarti Risk) and Emily Walker shared actionable solutions to help organizations tackle attribution as the first step toward VBC success.
What is Attribution and Why Does It Matter?
Attribution assigns accountability for patient care to specific providers under value-based agreements. Models like Primary Care Attribution and Risk-Based Attribution define who is responsible for what—and why. As Emily Walker noted:“Clear attribution isn’t just about assigning patients—it’s about defining relationships in a way that’s actionable and equitable.”
Clear attribution fosters trust, performance measurement, and seamless collaboration among providers and payers.
Common Attribution Challenges and How to Solve Them
Affinity vs. Attribution: Providers often see “everyone they treat” as their panel, while payers rely on rigid logic. Aligning early on shared definitions and transparent criteria fosters trust and operational success.
Inconsistent Definitions: Varying standards across payers create confusion and undermine performance evaluation. Standardizing definitions and automating validation can reduce administrative burdens and improve clarity.
Patient Eligibility Shifts: Events like Medicaid redetermination disrupt attribution counts and financial stability. Proactive monitoring and payer coordination are essential to mitigate these risks.
Inadequate Risk Adjustment: Traditional models fail to capture nuances in specialized populations. Tailoring methodologies ensures meaningful metrics and fair incentives.
Key Questions to Refine Attribution
How will patients be assigned (e.g., member choice, utilization patterns)?
What are the criteria for eligibility, and how will updates be communicated?
How will discrepancies be resolved transparently?
Lessons for VBC Success
Effective attribution relies on clarity, trust, and alignment. As Emily Walker stated:“Value-based care is a journey, not a sprint. Proactivity is the key to lasting success.”
Organizations that align definitions, monitor proactively, and collaborate effectively unlock the full potential of VBC. At Syntax Health, we simplify this process with tools and expertise to help providers succeed.
Take the First Step
Start your value-based care journey with clear attribution. Syntax Health offers solutions to streamline your process and build trust across stakeholders. Contact us today to redefine your approach and drive transformation.