Transformation takes hard work and time to implement

A newly released evaluation of the state’s innovation model found that Washington State has made progress on establishing new infrastructures and engaging providers but that effective cost control is difficult and takes a longer time horizon. The report, completed in January, was done by the University of Washington along with two other agencies. The report looked at the progress achieved with the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Innovation award of $65 million to Washington State in 2014. The new model was successful in geographic reach and establishment of nine Accountable Communities of Health. All the model proposed components were implemented as planned, except the model for payment change at rural clinics and hospitals. The study concludes that the model showed little if any short-term effect on population health, health behaviors, access to care and care coordination.