American Health Partners, a diversified healthcare company specializing in post-acute care for seniors, is at the forefront of value-based care models. The company, with operations across Tennessee and Alabama, leverages its TruHealth clinical services team to provide coordinated bedside care and achieve positive outcomes in settings ranging from nursing homes to assisted living facilities.
TruHealth: The Cornerstone of Value-Based Care at American Health Partners
Central to American Health Partners’ success in value-based care is TruHealth. This dedicated team of nurse practitioners and physician assistants provides proactive and coordinated care for long-term care residents enrolled in the company’s Institutional Special Needs Plans (I-SNPs). The TruHealth model emphasizes close collaboration with nursing home staff to improve resident outcomes and quality of life, resulting in fewer hospitalizations and emergency room visits. This success has spurred interest from partners in 12 states seeking to implement the TruHealth model. American Health Partners is looking to expand TruHealth’s reach beyond long-term care, potentially into assisted living and in-home care settings.
Strategic Partnerships and Staffing Initiatives for a Competitive Edge
American Health Partners actively engages with local community colleges and technical schools to foster a robust pipeline of nursing professionals. Through partnerships that offer clinical training opportunities and internal programs supporting CNA to medical technician advancement, the company invests in the future of its workforce. Additionally, the American Health Partners PEN (Partners for Excellence in Nursing) scholarship program provides financial assistance to employees pursuing advanced nursing credentials.
Navigating the Medicare Advantage Landscape
American Health Partners recognizes the continued growth and momentum of Medicare Advantage, particularly its I-SNP offering. The company assists its nursing home partners in navigating the complexities of Medicare Advantage regulations, providing expertise and support for those interested in owning and operating their own plans. This collaborative approach empowers nursing home operators to take control of their reimbursement structures and enhance their clinical programs. American Health Partners believes that owning a Medicare Advantage plan is crucial for nursing homes seeking to thrive in the evolving healthcare landscape. They further highlight the significant financial rewards of successful value-based care models, distributing over $11 million in shared savings to partners last year. The company sees continued growth potential in the I-SNP sector, as operators become more knowledgeable and eager to participate.
Addressing Administrative Pressures and Value-Based Care Models
American Health Partners encourages nursing home operators to actively participate in value-based care models rather than remaining passive recipients of rates set by large insurance companies. The company advocates for ownership of insurance plans, empowering operators with greater control and the ability to leverage clinical resources like TruHealth for improved care and financial outcomes. They emphasize the importance of execution in achieving profitability in value-based care, particularly in models like I-SNPs, where success hinges on delivering enhanced care and reducing rehospitalizations. Beyond I-SNPs, American Health Partners acknowledges the viability of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) as a valuable alternative for those not yet ready for I-SNP participation.
Medicaid: A Core Component of American Health Partners’ Mission
With over 75% of its patients relying on Medicaid, American Health Partners remains committed to serving the underserved and most vulnerable seniors. The company embraces the enduring role of Medicaid and actively assists individuals in qualifying for benefits. While acknowledging the shift from traditional Medicare to Medicare Advantage, American Health Partners underscores its unwavering dedication to Medicaid recipients.
Addressing the Staffing Mandate and Industry Challenges
American Health Partners recognizes the challenges posed by the staffing mandate amidst a nationwide shortage of healthcare professionals. The company emphasizes the need for a more holistic approach, including improved reimbursement rates, increased resources for training, and elevating the nursing profession to attract top talent. They advocate for legislative solutions that provide resources and funding to strengthen the long-term care sector. Furthermore, American Health Partners calls for a more collaborative and educational survey process, emphasizing continuous improvement rather than punishment. The company also addresses public perception of the nursing home industry, highlighting the dedication and expertise of caregivers and the importance of transcending political divides to ensure quality care for seniors.
