January 5, 2006
MINUTES
Kidney Care Quality Initiative Pay for Performance Work Group
January 5, 2005
Conference Call
Attendees:
Alan Nissenson, Facilitator Leader
Ray Hakim
Don Wesson
LeAnne Zumwalt
Kathy Lester, Patton Boggs and Kidney Care Partners
Lu Zawistowich, Patton Boggs
Julie Black, Patton Boggs
Summary
The Kidney Care Quality Initiative (KCQI) Pay for Performance Work Group discussed the insertion of the Pediatric Work Group’s recommendations in its document and finalized its recommendation document to be presented to the Steering Committee.
Discussion of Pediatric Insertions
Ms. Lester explained the intentions of the Pediatric Work Group in inserting its recommendations throughout the Pay for Performance document. The group decided that the insertion of Pediatric comments was not congruent with the idea behind having a separate Pediatric Work Group.
They recommended that the Pediatrics Work Group place its recommendations at the conclusion of the document, mirroring the pending Pay for Performance legislation in Congress.
Discussion of Finalization of Recommendation Document
The Work Group decided to separate its forth recommendation on funding mechanism in order to clearly articulate that the kidney community is opposed to a withhold funding mechanism.
Though the group debated whether to replace the phrase “substantial improvement” with “document improvement,” in its discussion of the incentive structure, the group agreed to maintain the requirement of substantial improvement.
The group discussed whether to include a reference to ESRD Networks in the Incentive Structure recommendations. The opinions of Work Group members varied as to the role and value that the ESRD Networks play. Rather than endorsing the ESRD Networks, the group will identify groups “such as ESRD Networks” to assist low-performing facilities.
The group also agreed to include a statement about its research agenda. In the third paragraph, the Work Group will convey that scientific and medical research should drive pay for performance programs.
Next Steps
Ms. Lester will revise the Phase I Recommendation Document according to the Work Groups specifications.
