Reforming Payment Systems to Advance Interprofessional Team-based Care

Background/Context
As healthcare continues to evolve, payment mechanisms play a critical role in shaping care delivery models. A key transformation in this landscape is the shift from traditional fee-for-service models to value-based care—an approach designed to improve patient outcomes, optimize resource utilization, and promote long-term system sustainability. Central to this shift is the alignment of payment models with interprofessional, team-based care, which emphasizes collaborative practice among diverse healthcare professionals. While interprofessional care has demonstrated improved health outcomes and increased efficiency, many existing payment structures continue to reward individual services, thereby undermining team-based approaches.

This presentation will examine various healthcare payment models and their influence on interprofessional team-based care. Emphasis will be placed on value-based payment models that incentivize high-quality, patient-centered care and improved health outcomes by reallocating financial risk from patients and payors to providers. These models promote a proactive, preventative approach to care that aligns well with the principles of interprofessional collaboration.

The presentation will include case studies and real-world examples to assess the impact of different payment models. Key evaluation metrics will include patient satisfaction, resource utilization, and long-term health outcomes. The discussion will also address the sustainability of these models, with particular attention to their potential to enhance access to care, reduce disparities, and support health equity.

Outcomes and Significance
This session aims to highlight how thoughtfully designed payment models can serve as a foundation for more integrated, patient-centered care. By reframing payment reform as a strategic investment in population health rather than a short-term cost-saving measure, the presentation seeks to inform and inspire policymakers and healthcare leaders to support durable, equitable changes in healthcare financing.