Direct Patient Engagement

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The Direct Patient Engagement Catalyst Program

A solution for boosting engagement

The CBCS Direct Patient Engagement Catalyst (DPEC) program overcomes traditional barriers facing
vulnerable populations to boost engagement, reduce unnecessary utilization, and save on care costs. The program, which is designed to help address social determinants of health, offers:

In-person contact and enrollment
24/7 access to support during low acuity and crisis situations
Community cohorts to address social determinants of health

“Without patient engagement, even the best programs are rendered ineffective. Yet social determinants
and comorbidities—including homelessness, mental health disorders, and substance use disorder —can make getting patients to engage in care plans seem almost impossible.”
– Community Leader, Mat-Su Health Foundation

Delivering Proven Results

The Mat-Su Health Foundation implemented the DPEC program as a key part of their high utilization
“HUMS” program. With CBCS, the program achieved:

61% reduction in ED utilization by the end of the first year
52% reduction in opioid prescriptions by the end of the second year

AND $4.3 million in total savings over two years.

“With CBC Solutions, not only are our patients experiencing better health, but as we’re able to engage and treat them through primary care, therapy, and SUD treatment centers we reduce the need for acute care and ultimately save money.”
– Ray Michaelson, Program Officer, Mat-Su Health Foundation

Better Outcomes, Together

CBCS uses a three-part approach to promote engagement with complex members. With significant demonstrated results in practices across communities, the DPEC program engages members from the beginning —a critical step in successfully addressing high utilization.

PHASE 1 – ENROLLMENT: CBCS attempts to directly contact each member— introducing the program and available resources and conducting a detailed intake assessment.

PHASE 2 – ONGOING CONTACT: Our staff maintains regular contact with enrolled members coordinating access to medical and psychosocial services, transportation, housing, meals, and other possible determinants.

PHASE 3 – CRISIS ENGAGEMENT: CBCS provides a 24/7 lifeline available to connect during crisis events. Staff are on-call and available to assist PCP and Emergency Department staff 24/7 during patient visits—whether planned or not. We leverage Immediate Access Funds to help meet critical needs identified during crisis events.

Patient engagement is arguably THE most critical aspect of a successful complex care program. Whether as a Catalyst Program or as a component of our Full Program, patient engagement is one of the first issues that should be addressed to achieve a strong complex care program in your community.