What is Our Service Worth?
Physios in the UK are being asked something that is very new to them, "What is your service worth?" Having worked in managed-care environments in the United States, both as a provider and for a third-party payer, this is not a new concept for me. I'm used to having to sell my service to those making the payments. Physios here are outright aghast at such a thought. They are insulted that they are now expected to show value for money.
A few weeks back, I gave a presentation on one of the programs I head up. It was to clinical leaders and commissioners (the ones who buy services for localities). The presentation focused on clinical outcomes and on how that could save money for the NHS and the localities, in terms of decreased medical expenses and need for nursing home admissions, which are paid for and run mostly by local councils. This really attracted the attention of the commissioners. They were thrilled that somebody had thought beyond the clinical and was able to demonstrate financial implications as well.
The government now allows any qualified provider (AQP) to provide health services. Local councils are not beholden to have the NHS provide services exclusively anymore. Physios who now how to demonstrate clear clinical and financial outcomes will have a clear advantage in this new world of health in the United Kingdom.