They’re Not Just “Little Adults”―Value-Based Payment Models That Include Children Must Focus On Their Needs

By Rob Houston and Kelsey Brykman, Center for Health Care Strategies

“Children are not little adults” is an oft-heard phrase in pediatric health care circles. Children have distinct health needs, and this sentiment reflects the need to develop approaches to care that are fundamentally different from adults, given the contrasting needs and areas of focus at different stages in the life course.

As value-based payment (VBP) becomes widespread, including in state Medicaid programs, VBP programs increasingly include children. However, the majority of VBP programs serving children are very similar, if not identical, to models focused on adults ― essentially . . .