SIM forum with advocates

This morning, SIM leadership held a forum to explain their plan to advocates. Unfortunately few independent consumer advocates were given an opportunity to ask questions, including this one. Most of the time was taken by SIM committee members expressing their positions, describing their programs and experiences. Many of the questions came from providers and others urging SIM leaders to include their programs in the SIM plan and fund their services. The committee did not respond to questions raised in the advocates’ letter. There were no assurances that a robust quality monitoring system will be in place before potentially harmful provider risk incentives are implemented and plans to lower medical home standards are still in place. Governance plans for continuing SIM are not settled and it is unclear who will decide, but the leaders are considering adding consumer advocates to committees. Advocates have posted Frequently Asked Questions About SIM and Guiding Principles for a Successful SIM. No further discussions are planned.