The Simple Model

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Ben Schwartz critiques the CMS ACCESS model and other value‑based care frameworks for their overwhelming administrative complexity and limited impact. He proposes a "Simple Model"—a streamlined fee‑for‑service system with minimal metrics, no prior authorizations, and higher physician reimbursement—to serve as a parallel A/B test against existing VBC programs. Schwartz outlines how the Simple Model would be evaluated using only patient satisfaction and physician participation, arguing that its success or failure would clarify whether complexity or volume incentives drive rising costs. He emphasizes the need for a bold, low‑bureaucracy experiment to break the cycle of ineffective reforms.