Health Care Provider Networks: Regulatory Issues for State Policy Makers
Health care provider networks are emerging in many states as physicians and hospitals seek to regain control over medical care from insurers and health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and as public and private sector purchasers seek to contain spending by contracting directly with providers. Networks gain the attention of state policy makers if they bear risk or aggregate market power. Many states have begun to examine the policy issues surrounding newly emerging provider networks. Because few states have much experience with these new forms of health care delivery, this paper highlights current trends in state policy, recent innovations in several states, and implications for provider network regulation of federal pension law (ERISA).
| 1996.Feb_.health.care_.provider.networks.regulatory.issues.pdf | 1.2 MB |
For individuals living with complex, often chronic conditions, and their families, palliative care can provide relief from symptoms, improve satisfaction and outcomes, and help address critical mental and spiritual needs during difficult times. Now more than ever, there is growing recognition of the importance of palliative care services for individuals with serious illness, such as advance care planning, pain and symptom management, care coordination, and team-based, multi-disciplinary support. These services can help patients and families cope with the symptoms and stressors of disease, better anticipate and avoid crises, and reduce unnecessary and/or unwanted care. While this model is grounded in evidence that demonstrates improved quality of life, better outcomes, and reduced cost for patients, only a fraction of individuals who could benefit from palliative care receive it. 
