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McKesson Launches New Software Solution

October 20, 2011

McKesson, a healthcare services and information technology company, recently launched McKesson Episode Management, a software solution that supports the shift toward value-based reimbursement models by automating complex bundled payment programs of all sizes.


A highly configurable, rules-based software application, Episode Management enables scalable episode programs with automated, prospective bundled payments. The solution automates flexible and configurable episode definitions, helping plans bundle and pay episode claims accurately, in real time and within current claim workflows. Broadly, the solution moves payers and providers from a volume-based system to one that is based on best practices and value.

"Bundled payment is one of the most innovative initiatives addressing fragmented, inconsistent care delivery, which drives up costs and can also have a negative impact on quality," said Jim Evans, vice president, Payment Management, McKesson Health Solutions, in a statement. "The challenge for the industry has been finding the right technology to streamline program design and management. McKesson has successfully leveraged its proven payment and decision management solutions in Episode Management, which helps payers and providers come together in new, more meaningful ways to achieve significant and sustainable results with these programs."

"This is an exciting time for the industry because so much payer-provider collaboration is occurring, which is exactly what we needed for real transformation to move forward," said Melanie Marcus, vice president, Emerging Solutions, McKesson Health Solutions. "Solutions such as Episode Management are enablers of that transformation. As payers and providers break new ground with strategies such as bundled payments, they must have solutions that are flexible enough to support whatever shape those programs take, not create barriers themselves. McKesson's combination of proven, robust technology, clinical content knowledge and expert services is ideally suited to deliver rapid and sustained return on investment in these innovative programs."

To streamline implementations, McKesson also offers expert services to assist health plans with evaluating program strategies, designing and managing episode programs.


Rahul Arora is a ContactCenterSolutions contributor. He has worked as an editor and freelance writer for several reputed organizations in India. To read more of his articles, please visit his columnist page.

Edited by Rich Steeves



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