Birthing-Friendly Hospital Designation Framework

This guide outlines the framework for the 'Birthing-Friendly' hospital designation being finalized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in fall 2023. The designation aims to enhance the quality of care in maternal health, motivated by the White House Blueprint for Addressing the Maternal Health Crisis. Hospitals that meet specific quality metrics will be awarded this designation, which is expected to improve their payor mix and attract more patients, particularly those with private insurance. The guide details the importance of aligning OB/GYNs with hospital strategies to meet quality targets and maximize reimbursement. It emphasizes the need for hospitals to implement safety protocols and select strong, outcome-driven quality metrics for physician compensation arrangements. The document also discusses the increasing prevalence of value-based care arrangements and the significance of hospitals collaborating with physicians to achieve these goals. Overall, the guide presents a comprehensive approach for hospitals to enhance maternal care while ensuring financial viability.