Physicians can apply to participate in new oncology care payment model

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services today announced a new Oncology Care Model for physician practices aimed at providing better and more coordinated care at lower cost. The five-year model will begin in spring 2016 and provide episode- and performance-based payment. Participants must provide patient navigation and 24/7 access to a clinician, among other requirements, and will receive monthly care management payments for each Medicare fee-for-service beneficiary during an episode, CMS said. Physician group practices and solo practitioners that provide chemotherapy for cancer and are currently enrolled in Medicare may submit a letter of intent to apply through April 23. Commercial insurers, including Medicare Advantage and Medicaid managed care plans, also may submit a letter of intent through March 19. Applications are due June 18. For more information, see the CMS factsheet.