Applying a framework for healthcare incentives simulation

Abstract

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.

Emulating a System Dynamics Model with Agent-Based Models: A Methodological Case Study in Simulation of Diabetes Progression

“…A generalization beyond the patient-provider interaction has diverse additional components as described in Figure 1. The figure, itself a more detailed elaboration of the workflow defined in [2], shows behaviors, influences, and other elements of a healthcare "knowledge core" which can be called out as modules and parameters in an individual simulation model. Each interaction between agents has its own characteristics, and modeled actions to be taken.…”