STQN FAQ

Clinical integration refers to coordination of patient care across conditions, providers, hospitals and care settings to achieve care that is safe, timely, effective, efficient and patient-focused.
Factors in achieving clinical integration include:
- Promotion of changes in provider culture.
- Redesign of payment methods and incentives.
- Incorporation of technical care support tools to aid providers.
- Focusing on chronic disease management.
- Measuring clinical outcomes.
The focus of STQN is on creating a clinical integrated delivery network with an eye toward improving the health outcomes of patients within communities.

STQN is a physician-led organization that:
- Contracts with insurance companies.
- Provides infrastructure and support to member physicians.
- Creates market-responsive program.
- Rewards physician performance.
It was formed with significant start-up investment from St. Tammany Health System.

As the clinically integrated network begins to develop, it will negotiate value-based contracts with payers.
“Incentive-only” contracts vs. “full” contracts, which include base FFS rates
Group contract
Shared savings vs. performance.
Base rates – Physicians continue to bill and collect from insurance company under group contract rates and terms.
Incentives are paid to the clinically integrated entity, then distributed per program measures, weighting and physician performance.

It positions you and your practice well as payment reforms occur.
The population health approach creates opportunity to impact community health status.
Provides better care to patients within your community.
Offers an opportunity to join with others to prepare for coming “value-based” market changes.
Minimizes insurance company intrusiveness.
Offers opportunities to take advantage of value-based incentive programs such a PQRS assistance.
Strong strategic commitment by St. Tammany Health System and St. Tammany Quality Network.

Additional resources

A collection of helpful links.