Key Principles

USofCare identified four major areas of focus, reviewed by providers, state and national advocates, regulators, and other health policy experts, that should guide the transition toward patient-first care, and we encourage federal policymakers to incorporate our principles into both new and existing payment models as well as through changes to status quo fee-for-service payment, such as through the Medicare physician fee schedule. Many, if not all, of the principles may be adapted for state patient-first care models, but should take into account state-specific considerations that may differ from federal models. While the following principles are not exhaustive, any comprehensive policy should incorporate the following elements.