Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of this presentation participants will be able to effectively evaluate what they can anticipate by their Immunization Registry participating, in a third party payer's Pay for Performance Program (performance based incentives).


Background:
Partners in Health Systems (PHS) is responsible for the deployment and implementation of the HealthyShot product for the New York State Immunization Information System (NYSIIS). HealthyShot is one of the applications that allows for participation in the New York State Immunization Registry. Throughout 2005 PHS and Independent Health Association (IHA) worked with one another advocating for the NYS registry through participation with HealthyShot.


Setting:
Various pediatric practices, including inner city and suburban practices throughout the greater Buffalo Metropolitan area


Population:
Children aged 0-18 years.


Project Description:
In the summer of 2005 IHA proposed that participation with HealthyShot be part of their Pay for Performance Program (performance based incentives). A cornerstone of this partnership is that, by providing incentives/assistance, it is a strong indication of IHA's support for HealthyShot, while also providing resources for a smoother and more efficient implementation into practices. For instance, this program will assist in the elimination of potential barriers such as costs associated with hardware, connectivity and staff resources. Through a series of informational sessions eligible physician practices were provided with a thorough explanation of what are the requirements for participation. For Sites that are eligible, PHS is providing the pre-installation, installation, and post installation services and support that is the trademark of HealthyShot


Results/Lessons Learned:
The Pay for Performance program was rolled out 10/03/05. There are initial findings that, through the support from the third payer (IHA) there has been an increased number of sites wanting to participate.