5 Ways Technology is Supporting the Rise of Value-Based Care

The value-based care movement is accelerating. According to recent data, more than 13 million Medicare beneficiaries are now aligned with accountable care organizations (ACOs)—a 10% increase from the previous year. With the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) aiming for all Medicare patients to be covered under value-based models by 2030, providers are under increasing pressure to adapt.

This transition challenges health systems to go beyond treating illness. They must deliver better outcomes, improve patient satisfaction, and control costs. While policy sets the course, technology is proving essential to achieving these goals on the ground.

1. Enhancing Patient Engagement at the Bedside

Engaged patients are more likely to adhere to treatment plans, leading to better health outcomes and higher satisfaction rates. Technological solutions, such as interactive bedside systems and mobile health applications, empower patients by providing:

• Real-time access to health education materials
• Entertainment options to improve comfort during hospital stays
• Direct communication channels with care teams

These tools not only enhance the patient experience but also contribute to improved HCAHPS scores, a critical metric in value-based care models. Learn more about what patients really want.

Further reading: The power of patient engagement

2. Streamlining Operations Through Automation

Healthcare providers face increasing pressure to deliver high-quality care efficiently. Healthcare automation can alleviate administrative burdens by:

• Automating routine tasks such as appointment scheduling and medication reminders
• Integrating Electronic Health Records (EHRs) for seamless information sharing
• Implementing virtual nursing solutions to monitor patients remotely

Another example of smart automation at work comes from John Knox Village’s partnership with VirtuSense Technologies. By deploying AI-driven fall prevention tools, the facility achieved an 80% reduction in resident falls. This proactive approach not only enhances patient safety but also exemplifies how predictive technology can reduce reactive care demands, easing the burden on staff while supporting the core objectives of value-based care.

By reducing manual workloads, these technologies allow clinicians to focus more on direct patient care, thereby improving the overall quality of care.

3. Leveraging Virtual Nursing for Continuous Care

The integration of virtual nursing programs enables continuous patient monitoring and support, particularly beneficial in managing chronic conditions and post-operative care. Virtual nurses can:

• Conduct regular check-ins via telehealth platforms
• Provide timely interventions based on real-time data
• Enhance patient education and adherence to care plans
• Improve ADT, the Admission, Discharge, and Transfer process

This approach not only improves patient outcomes but also optimizes resource allocation within healthcare facilities. A notable example is Lee Health's implementation of a virtual nursing program, which led to a 20% improvement in patient satisfaction scores and streamlined discharge processes. This initiative showcases how integrating technology into nursing workflows can directly support the goals of value-based care.

4. Promoting Equitable Care Through Accessible Technology

Ensuring equitable access to healthcare services is a cornerstone of value-based care. Technology can bridge gaps by:

• Providing multilingual support and culturally relevant health information
• Offering telehealth services to reach underserved communities
• Utilizing mobile health platforms to monitor and manage care remotely

These initiatives help deliver equitable care, ensuring all patients receive effective care regardless of their background or location.

5. Improving Quality of Care Through Data-Driven Insights

Data analytics play a crucial role in improving quality of care by:

• Identifying trends and patterns in patient health outcomes
• Enabling predictive modeling for proactive interventions
• Facilitating continuous improvement in care delivery processes

By harnessing data, healthcare providers can make informed decisions that lead to better patient outcomes and more efficient care pathways.

Conclusion: Embracing Technology for Value-Based Care Success

The transition to value-based care is reshaping the healthcare industry, placing greater emphasis on patient outcomes, satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness. Technology serves as a vital enabler in this shift, offering tools that enhance engagement, streamline operations, and promote equitable, high-quality care.

Healthcare organizations that leverage these technological advancements are better positioned to meet the demands of value-based care models—a shift already proving successful, with the Medicare Shared Savings Program reporting $1.8 billion in savings in 2022. These results underscore the potential of aligned strategies that prioritize both clinical excellence and smart infrastructure.

Explore PDi Communication Systems' Solutions

At PDi Communication Systems, we specialize in developing patient-centric technologies that align with value-based care principles. Our solutions are designed to enhance the patient experience, support healthcare teams, and improve care delivery outcomes.

Explore our solutions to see how PDi can support your value-based care strategy.