The Maryland Primary Care Program (MDPCP) is a cornerstone of Maryland’s innovative approach to healthcare. Designed to enhance care coordination, improve patient outcomes, and control costs, the MDPCP represents a significant step towards a more integrated and effective healthcare system. This voluntary program empowers primary care providers (PCPs) to take a leading role in disease prevention, chronic disease management, and reducing unnecessary hospitalizations.
The MDPCP operates under the umbrella of Maryland’s Total Cost of Care All-Payer Model contract with the Federal Government. This model aims to streamline care across various settings, ensuring a cohesive and patient-centered approach. The MDPCP is pivotal in achieving this goal by providing participating PCPs with the necessary resources and support to deliver advanced primary care services. This includes funding to implement care coordination activities, adopt new technologies, and enhance their practice infrastructure.
The Maryland Department of Health (MDH), in collaboration with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), spearheaded the development of the MDPCP. The Program Management Office (PMO) within MDH’s Public Health Services, working alongside the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI), is responsible for the program’s implementation. This partnership ensures alignment with federal guidelines and leverages the expertise of both state and national healthcare leaders.
CareFirst, a major health insurer in Maryland, joined the MDPCP as an aligned payer in January 2020, further solidifying the program’s commitment to comprehensive care. This collaboration signifies a unified effort to promote the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model, emphasizing coordinated and comprehensive primary care.
The alignment between CareFirst and the MDPCP creates a more streamlined experience for both patients and providers, with consistent standards and coordinated care pathways. While there are key differences between the Medicare MDPCP and CareFirst’s aligned PCMH program, both share the common goal of improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
Currently, there are no open application periods for practices, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), and Community Transformation Organizations (CTOs) to join the MDPCP. For the most up-to-date information regarding the program and Maryland’s Total Cost of Care Model, please refer to the CMS website. This resource provides detailed information about the model’s goals, implementation strategies, and overall progress. The MDPCP represents a significant investment in the future of healthcare in Maryland, paving the way for a more coordinated, efficient, and patient-centered system.
For further details regarding Maryland’s Total Cost of Care model, visit the CMS Total Cost of Care Model page. Information related to COVID-19 and its impact on the MDPCP can be found on the COVID-19 Information page.
