Kaiser has an equivalent program in place in its northwest region. They report strong interest in and support for the program among physicians who practice in their hospitals. OMA has briefed the Oregon Board of Medical Examiners on RAMP's performance over the past five years. Given that many of these individuals were referred for baseline practice reviews because of excessive claim frequency, this change in their claim accumulation pattern is significant. RAMP's assessment of their claim vulnerability, its strategies for reducing that vulnerability and its diligence in monitoring performance have each played an important role in the process.
Early evidence suggests that to a great extent RAMP's strategy has been successful.
However, we must not overlook the fact that RAMP is an expensive program. This is a justifiable concern. If RAMP is to be successful by measures other than those outlined above, it must continue to grow and strive for greater financial independence. For now, OMA continues to work with groups both within and without this organization to develop knowledge of RAMP as an important medical professional resource and to encourage its use where appropriate. Reprinted with permission.