Implementing value-based physician compensation: advice from early adopters.

Provider organizations that have experience in implementing value-based physician compensation can recommend the following best practices, among others: Clearly link changes in physician compensation to the broader strategic and financial objectives of the organization. Focus financial incentives on evidence-based measures that physicians find credible and achievable. Make sure everyone understands the incentive measures and compensation formulas before implementing changes.

Beyond bankable dollars: establishing a business case for improving health care.

To address widespread deficiencies in the quality of health care, the authors argue that health care organizations need to be able to make a "business case" for improving quality--a compelling rationale for financial investment in quality improvement programs. The authors' framework for such a business case is organized around three broad areas: direct financial considerations, strategic considerations, and internal organizational considerations. Within these categories, they offer a total of 10 specific business case arguments, with examples, for investing in quality improvement.