The Growth Of Preferred Partner Networks

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The growth of Preferred Partner Networks (PPN) in physiotherapy is another market trend that might be relevant as Physio4D defines its monetization strategy. PPNs have existed in multiple forms within the healthcare delivery system and the Ontario Physiotherapist Association has stated (January 2006) that it does not endorse or discourage such contractual relationships among providers8. Most PPNs are initiated by insurers, employers and other third-party payers to access healthcare services at a discounted rate by providing more referrals to partnering clinics. Some preferred provider relationships are established to create a provider pool that can be relied on to accommodate referrals or to allow for priority access. Others are established to create a ready-made referral network8. PPNs are characterized by one or more of the following8,9 -
• They involve a contractual relationship between the insurer and the health practitioner, often including pre-arranged prices for a basket of services, within specific timeframes, with pre-established lines of communication, reporting requirements, data collection.
• The claimant’s participation in the PPN will result from an insurer’s referral.
• In most instances, the treatment provided by a PPN is pre-approved by the insurer, or the insurer may have set a cap on the cost or number of weeks of treatment, subject to the minimum requirements set out in the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (automobile insurance specific policy).
The
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