Toolkit
Updated -
November 4, 2016
Care compacts—formalized agreements between PCPs and specialists that designate referral protocols, care transition expectations, and respective care management responsibilities—can help improve care coordination and enhance both patient and provider satisfaction.
This toolkit includes action steps for implementing care compacts, as well as a collection of templates, worksheets, and other resources to help you get started.
1. Evaluate existing coordination gaps to inform compact design
Identify current collaboration challenges, outline goals to be achieved through care compact creation, and include the right stakeholders in development process. Learn more on p. 6.
Supporting tools: PCP-Specialist Coordination Survey (p. 11), Discussion Guide to Kickstart Communication Improvements (p. 12)
2. Facilitate physician buy-in by setting clear targets for mutual accountability
Set short- and long-term goals for compact implementation and hold providers accountable to agreed upon communication standards. Learn more on p. 7.
Supporting tool: Catholic Medical Partners Sample Referral Agreement (p. 13)
3. Clearly communicate changes in staff responsibilities
Train all staff on the purpose of care compacts, the specifics of the agreement, and their responsibilities. Learn more on p. 8.
Supporting toolkit: Change Management Toolkit for Population Health Managers
4. Routinely audit performance against compact goals to promote adherence
Schedule internal reviews to assess adherence to compact guidelines, pinpoint improvement opportunities, and refine existing metrics as necessary. Learn more on p. 9.