Insights Results
Overview of article/program
This article assesses independent evaluations of rounds 1 and 2 of State Innovation Model (SIM) Initiative
In 2013, CMS Innovation Center awarded over $250 million to 6 round 1 SIM states: Arkansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oregon, and Vermont
In 2015, CMS Innovation Center awarded $622 million to 11 round 2 SIM states: Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and Washington
Methods of article
Authors used 1) qualitative data collection and analysis to document what states are implementing ; and 2) quantitative analysis to detect significant changes in care and outcomes in the 3 years following implementation of the SIM Initiative
Authors used a framework to guide evaluation, that consisted of 5 components: 1) Models and strategies (e.g., workforce development, health IT and data analytics); 2) Levers (e.g., state legislation, Medicaid waivers and state plans); 3) Implementation (e.g., wide stakeholder involvement in transformation activities); 4) Model impact (e.g., numbers of physicians and practices participating in models, lower healthcare costs); and 5) Statewide impact (e.g., Improved care coordination and quality of care, improved population health)
Results
Each state’s SIM includes: 1) 1+ healthcare delivery and payment reform; 2) Strategies to enable the operation of these models (e.g., IT, data analytics investment) and plans for integrating population health activities; and 3) Policy levers to allow or facilitate the spread of these models and strategies throughout the state
Key takeaways/implications
Policy makers can look to lessons learned from how SIM states leverage policies and strategies intended to grow delivery system and payment models to reach more providers and consumers
Results could also guide decisions to help build the infrastructure and capacity to operate delivery system and payment models, and help refine strategies based on stakeholder feedback and recognition of a changing environment
