About PFC
Introduction to the Concept of Patient-First Care
Patient-First Care (PFC) is a transformative approach that centers on the needs and experiences of patients. Unlike traditional models that focus on the quantity of services provided, PFC prioritizes personalized, high-quality care. It aims to make health care more affordable, dependable, and understandable by fostering better communication, ensuring coordination among providers, and delivering whole-person treatment that addresses the entire well-being of patients.
Detailed Comparison Between Fee-for-Service and Patient-First Care
Payment Structure
Fee-for-Service (FFS)
Providers are reimbursed for each service, test, or procedure, which can lead to an emphasis on the quantity of services rather than the quality of care
Patient-First Care (PFC)
Providers are incentivized based on patient health outcomes and the quality of care delivered. This model encourages a focus on the effectiveness and efficiency of the care provided.
Focus
Fee-for-Service (FFS)
The primary focus is on the number of services rendered, often resulting in fragmented care where different providers might not communicate effectively with one another.
Patient-First Care (PFC)
Emphasis is placed on the quality of care, with a whole-person approach that considers the patient’s overall well-being, lifestyle, and preferences.
Coordination
Fee-for-Service (FFS)
Limited coordination between various health care providers can lead to repetitive tests, duplicative treatments, and a disjointed patient experience.
Patient-First Care (PFC)
High levels of coordination among health care providers ensure that all aspects of a patient’s health are managed in a coordinated and collaborative way.
Patient Experience
Fee-for-Service (FFS)
Patients may feel like a number in an assembly line, receiving care that prioritizes procedures over meaningful interactions, and often experiencing an overreliance on medication to address symptoms rather than root causes. It also means taking more time off of work, coordinating transportation and child care, and added confusion.
Patient-First Care (PFC)
Patients receive personalized, compassionate care that treats them as whole individuals and are able to spend more time with their doctor. Providers spend more time understanding patients’ unique health concerns and developing comprehensive care plans that address underlying health issues, leading to better health outcomes and increased patient satisfaction.