Applying a framework for healthcare incentives simulation

At WinterSim 2011, we originally proposed an agent-based framework for healthcare simulations, enabling flexible integration of multiple simulation models, including models of disease progression, effects of provider interventions, and provider behavior models that are responsive to contractual incentives. In this paper, we report results using our proposed framework to integrate two examples of provider behavior models, two examples of disease models, and four examples of payment models. We explore multiple combinations of these models and simulate the impact that alternative payment models may have on health and financial outcomes. These examples test the robustness of the simulation framework, and illustrate the value of such simulations to the policy makers who design incentives to improve cost and health outcomes, and to providers who wish to evaluate the financial impact of proposed incentives on their practice. © 2012 IEEE.