The Provincial Government and the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association (NLMA) have reached a tentative agreement on a new Blended Capitation Payment Model for family physicians in the province.
Blended Capitation is a voluntary payment model designed for independent community family practices. The model pays doctors a set annual fee for each attached patient, plus a reduced fee-for-service each time they see that patient. The new model supports comprehensive family medicine, improved access for patients, team-based care, and improved recruitment and retention of physicians who want to practice under this model. Before finalizing the new agreement, the NLMA will hold virtual consultations with its members.
Through collaboration with the NLMA, government is advancing a suite of incentives and bonuses that improve the overall ability of the province to recruit and retain doctors. The tentative agreement on Blended Capitation is just the latest initiative arising from this collaboration, building upon recently announced measures including the $25,000 Recognition and Retention Bonus for family physicians for a one-year return-in-service agreement, as well as the Salaried Family Physician Remoteness Bonus of between $11,000 and $17,000, depending on the remoteness of the location, to address recruitment challenges for salaried family physicians at remote sites in the province.
Quotes
“We continue with our plan to improve our health care system and address the challenges we are facing regarding the recruitment and retention of health care professionals such as family physicians. Through our ongoing collaboration with the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association, we are finding ways to recognize physicians who continue to help sustain our health care system, as well as to help entice new ones to our province. A tentative agreement on Blended Capitation is another significant initiative to further our efforts”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“Newfoundland and Labrador is one of many jurisdictions with health care staffing challenges. Addressing them remains a priority for our government. Reaching a tentative agreement on Blended Capitation is a considerable step forward, and speaks to our collaborative efforts with our stakeholders. It is also a significant step forward for all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as for all family physicians who wish to participate in this new model.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
“Blended Capitation will allow family doctors to focus on the needs of patients rather than the volume of patient visits. This aligns with the way that family medicine learners are trained to provide comprehensive, guideline-based care and patient education. It also gives doctors the flexibility to provide services in different ways so they can deliver a full range of care that encourages longer appointment times, health promotion, and teamwork with other health care providers. This is a professionally satisfying way to work. We believe it will help retain family doctors, as well as attract new physicians who want to practice under this model.”
Dr. Kris Luscombe
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association
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