Why Health Care Payment Models Shape Patient Outcomes
Wed Feb 04 2026
In the final part of this three-part series, The Exam Room concludes its conversation with Dr. Mary O'Connor, orthopedic surgeon and national leader in prevention-focused, value-based musculoskeletal care.
This episode explores the structural and financial realities shaping health care delivery in the United States — and how those realities influence patient outcomes. Dr. O'Connor highlights the critical role Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) play in supporting whole-person, community-centered care and explains why these organizations are uniquely positioned to influence behavior change and address social determinants of health.
The conversation also examines the challenges created by fee-for-service payment models, which often incentivize procedures and surgical volume over prevention and long-term health outcomes. Dr. O'Connor discusses how new models of care, including interdisciplinary and non-surgical approaches, can improve patient outcomes while lowering overall health care costs.
Throughout the episode, the discussion emphasizes the importance of challenging the status quo and building sustainable care models that support patients, providers, employers, and communities alike.
🎙️ Part Three and conclusion of a series on prevention, behavior change, and community-driven health.
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In the final part of this three-part series, The Exam Room concludes its conversation with Dr. Mary O'Connor, orthopedic surgeon and national leader in prevention-focused, value-based musculoskeletal care. This episode explores the structural and financial realities shaping health care delivery in the United States — and how those realities influence patient outcomes. Dr. O'Connor highlights the critical role Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) play in supporting whole-person, community-centered care and explains why these organizations are uniquely positioned to influence behavior change and address social determinants of health. The conversation also examines the challenges created by fee-for-service payment models, which often incentivize procedures and surgical volume over prevention and long-term health outcomes. Dr. O'Connor discusses how new models of care, including interdisciplinary and non-surgical approaches, can improve patient outcomes while lowering overall health care costs. Throughout the episode, the discussion emphasizes the importance of challenging the status quo and building sustainable care models that support patients, providers, employers, and communities alike. 🎙️ Part Three and conclusion of a series on prevention, behavior change, and community-driven health.