Seniors in value-based primary care have more frequent, consistent visits

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A new study suggests that older adults cared for in value-based, senior-focused primary care practices are seeing their physicians more often — and more consistently — than those treated under traditional fee-for-service (FFS) models.

The research, published this week in The New England Journal of Medicine Catalyst, reviewed data from 3.2 million Medicare Advantage beneficiaries across six senior-focused organizations. On average, patients in value-based practices had 20% more primary care visits per year and 6% more regularly scheduled visits than those in FFS arrangements, pointing to a more proactive approach to managing chronic and preventive care.

Continuity of care matters

The study also found stronger continuity in value-based models. Roughly three-quarters of patients in senior-focused practices consistently saw the same primary care physician, compared with 55% in fee-for-services settings.

“This continuity of care means that physicians and other health care providers are more likely to have a comprehensive understanding of their patients’ medical history, preferences and specific health needs, ultimately leading to improved diagnosis, treatment and better overall health outcomes,” said Kate Goodrich, M.D., M.H.S., chief medical officer at Humana, in a news release.

Why it matters for seniors

The findings build on earlier research in Health Affairs that linked senior-focused models to better access to primary care for older adults, who often manage multiple chronic conditions, regular visits with the same physician can be critical.

“Consistent, continuous and high-quality primary care is the bedrock of a high-functioning health care system,” said Suhas Gondi, M.D., MBA, one of the study's authors and an attending physician at Massachusetts General Hospital. “That value-based primary care model purpose-built for seniors may help promote consistency and continuity in primary care makes it an important asset in our collective pursuit to improve population health nationwide.”

Expanding the case for value-based care

Humana, which sponsored the study, operates CenterWell Senior Primary Care, one of the senior-focused organizations reviewed. Company leaders say the findings reinforce the advantages of tailoring care delivery to seniors.

“With a higher prevalence of chronic conditions and greater overall health needs, seniors deserve specialized primary care services and tailored support through a value-based model,” said Reneé Buckingham, president of Humana’s Primary Care Organization. “When we take the time to really get to know and understand our patients and surround them with a multi-faceted care team in facilities designed specifically for seniors, we can provide more consistent, personalized and effective care to help those we serve achieve their best health.”

Looking ahead

Researchers noted that outcomes improved most where physicians took on greater financial accountability, suggesting a dose-response effect. As policymakers and payers continue expanding value-based programs, the evidence could help shape how primary care is structured and reimbursed — particularly for seniors who need steady, coordinated management of their health.