About this Episode

Hosts Elyssa Katz and Dr. Steve Landers explore the evolving landscape of value-based care in the context of the care at home community.

With value-based care being one of the most prominent trends shaping healthcare policy, payment models, and provider behavior, this episode dives deep into what it really means, who it benefits, and how it impacts patients and providers alike.

In this compelling conversation, they break down the goals, realities, and challenges of aligning better outcomes with lower costs. Dr. Landers brings a unique lens as both a physician and former healthcare executive, providing behind-the-scenes insight into Medicare Advantage plans, demonstration programs, and risk-based care models. The duo unpacks how these models affect elder care, disability services, and home-based healthcare delivery, offering listeners clarity in an often jargon-heavy conversation.

Key concepts discussed include the nuances between avoidable vs. necessary hospitalizations, the true definition of patient-centered care, and the misalignment between coding systems and real-world outcomes. They examine how care at home providers can be empowered as frontline experts in managing complex patients safely and affordably, but also address the frustrating misfires when working with large managed care organizations.

Dr. Landers recounts his personal experiences with CMS demonstrations like Independence at Home and Primary Care First, and what they reveal about system incentives. Elyssa presses on practical implementation — what does value-based care look like when the rubber hits the road for providers and families?

They explore vital tools for success in these models — from telehealth to triage tools to outcome dashboards — and discuss why communication and risk assessment are foundational. A significant portion of the episode questions whether today’s models reward the right behaviors or merely incentivize better documentation and coding.

The episode ends with a powerful call to action: advocacy. With Medicare Advantage now covering more than 50% of Medicare beneficiaries, both hosts stress that now is the time for care at home providers to demand a seat at the table. The stakes are too high to leave policy conversations to profit-driven entities alone.

Tune in for an accessible, honest, and insightful look at the current state — and future possibilities — of value-based care. Whether you’re a home health provider, policy advocate, or family caregiver, this conversation will leave you more informed and inspired to take action.