Exploration of network facilitator experiences implementing payer-partner programs within a nationwide clinically...

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Health Services Research
• Network Science

Background:

• The Community Pharmacy Enhanced Services Network (CPESN) is a large, clinically integrated network (CIN) of community pharmacies.
• CPESN USA supports innovative programs and value-based contracting in community-based pharmacies.
• Defining strategies for payer-partner program implementation is crucial for network growth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore strategies and resources utilized for implementing payer-partner programs within a CIN.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to successful program implementation.
• To understand the confidence levels and support needs of network leaders.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional electronic survey was distributed to 48 managing network facilitators (MNFs) across 48 local CPESN networks.
• The survey collected data on network opportunities, helpful/needed resources, barriers, confidence levels, and team collaboration.
• Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics after a 65-day collection period.

Main Results:

• A high response rate of 87.5% (42 completed surveys) was achieved.
• Key barriers identified were buy-in effect (41.0%) and management of pharmacy/network follow-through (28.2%).
• Helpful resources included peer-to-peer guidance (79.5%) and program handouts (76.9%), with needs for subject matter experts and templated communications.

Conclusions:

• Barriers to payer-partner program implementation include buy-in, follow-through management, and peer/implementation management.
• Network leaders desire a toolkit with successful strategies and education on community building and accountability.
• Tailored support and resources can improve network leaders' capacity to scale programs in community pharmacies.