Maryland program for specialist physicians reports initial Medicare savings

The voluntary Episode Quality Improvement Program for specialist physicians saved Medicare $20 million in its first year, the Maryland Health Services Cost Review Commission announced April 11.

EQIP was developed in collaboration with the Maryland Hospital Association, Maryland State Medical Society (MedChi) and state-designated health information exchange (CRISP) as part of the Maryland Total Cost of Care Model. This value-based payment program allows participants to earn a portion of the Medicare savings they create from delivering efficient and high-quality care.

"The Maryland Hospital Association has valued partnering with the HSCRC, MedChi and CRISP to develop innovative care redesign programs such as EQIP," said MHA President and CEO Melony Griffith. "We're pleased to collaborate on this important work with our partners to build healthier communities."