Which practices indicate readiness to participate in bundled payment models?

• A. Fragmented IT, no data sharing, no post-acute care planning.
• B. Aligned IT systems, standardized clinical pathways, data sharing with partners, and clear post-acute care arrangements.
• C. No data sharing, unclear post-acute arrangements.
• D. Only focus on acute care with no coordination.

Answer: (B)

Readiness for bundled payment models hinges on end-to-end coordination and the ability to measure and manage the entire care episode. This requires aligned IT systems that enable seamless data exchange, standardized clinical pathways to reduce unwarranted variation, data sharing with all involved partners, and clear post-acute care arrangements so costs and outcomes can be tracked across the full episode. When these elements are in place, providers can monitor performance, coordinate transitions, and manage resources across settings, which is essential for success under bundled payments.

The other options miss essential pieces: fragmented IT and no data sharing prevent the necessary visibility and coordination; no data sharing with unclear post-acute arrangements creates risk of cost overruns and poor outcomes; focusing only on acute care with no coordination neglects post-acute costs and impacts overall value.