No new data but a few important updates
VHC911 – Stat v.5
We will be back with more data soon but wanted to be sure to put a few items on your radar:
1) Today at 1:00 pm the Green Mountain Care Board is hosting a discussion with Dr. Peter Pronovost on his Medicare Breakeven Project in Cleveland. Since we know UVMMC's costs are so high they lose $119M a year treating Medicare patients, this will be an important example of how an Academic Medical Center can deliver high quality care while breaking even or making money on Medicare reimbursement. It's a strategy that can should help Vermont get healthcare costs under control. The meeting is open to the public to watch and participate.
Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 1:00pm Eastern
Virtual Access: MS Teams Meeting Link
Dial in by phone: (802) 828-7667 Phone conference ID: 567 890 424#
Dr. Pronovost, a nationally recognized leader in patient safety and healthcare innovation, will share insights into his research and work addressing financial sustainability in healthcare systems. The Board will engage in a discussion about the implications of this project and its relevance to Vermont’s healthcare landscape.
2) Bill Schubart, a member of the VHC911 board, has written a thoughtful piece on governance, shining a light on the structures overseeing VT's largest hospital, the UVM Health Network and network-owned hospitals. "Under both state and federal statutes, trustees have specific legal, financial, and reporting responsibilities with which they must stay current."
3) Blue Cross & Blue Shield of VT's financial trouble is a concern for anyone looking at Vermont's healthcare system. The Burlington Free Press is the latest to explore the trend and includes this plea from BCBSVT's CEO, Don George:
"We can't solve these daunting problems alone," George said. "We must set aside self-interest and work together − government leaders, healthcare providers, health plans, businesses and employers − to reduce costs in the short term and deliver systematic changes that will offer Vermonters access to affordable, high-quality healthcare services."