How are Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs Adjusting to Value-Based Payment? A Statewide Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Healthcare Policy
• Addiction Treatment

Background:

• Healthcare systems are increasingly adopting value-based payment (VBP) models to promote quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Substance use disorder (SUD) treatment providers face significant operational shifts to align with VBP requirements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences, challenges, and needs of SUD treatment providers during the implementation of VBP in New York State.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing five focus groups with 68 SUD treatment professionals.
• Content analysis of focus group discussions to identify emerging themes.

Main Results:

• Administrators reported being overwhelmed due to competing demands, workforce shortages, and technology gaps.
• Providers experienced confusion and financial concerns related to new roles, business practices, and partnerships.
• SUD providers actively addressed workforce needs and developed new clinical and business models.
• A consistent need for increased support and information was expressed by participants.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare systems must proactively address the resource and infrastructure challenges faced by SUD providers during VBP implementation.
• Targeted support and clear information are essential to facilitate successful adaptation of SUD treatment services to value-based care models.