The study found that the program provided patients battling opioid use for musculoskeletal pain conditions with lower costs, fewer emergency room visits and overall stronger well-being, according to a Sept. 21 news release.
The program blends a variety of treatments — including social workers, physicians, acupuncturists, chef educators and more — with a bundled payment agreement to accommodate the range of services.
“Chronic pain can be debilitating, and providers are challenged with navigating pain management with a keen awareness of opioid dangers,” says Joshua Plavin, MD, vice president and CMO at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont. “This is an innovative partnership that supports patient-centered, value-based care.”
