Although there are studies that demonstrate improved symptom management, improved quality of life, and increased satisfaction, there remains no consensus on methodology for measuring effectiveness in the economic evaluation of palliative care or a study that quantifies the relationship between palliative care effectiveness in a value equation measure. The research goal for this project is to answer: Will an alternative reimbursement model provide financial sustainability for a palliative care program?
Aim 1: Evaluate the association between palliative care interventions and cost of care.
Hypothesis: Palliative care interventions are associated with significantly lower Medicare cost. Extrapolated cost from Medicare claims data will provide evidence of cost-savings for patients receiving palliative care interventions compared to patients who did not receive palliative care interventions.
Aim 2: Evaluate an alternative reimbursement model for palliative care services.
Hypothesis: A global/capitated (per member per month) alternative reimbursement model for palliative care services will pay for palliative care operating and service delivery costs while demonstrating a return on investment for 3rd party payers.