As the sun rose over Oklahoma City on a Tuesday morning, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation at the first SoonerSelect Provider Town Hall. Attendees gathered in a spacious room, eager to engage with leaders from the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) and learn about the transformative changes coming to the state's healthcare system.

Ellen Bittner, the CEO of OHCA, welcomed the crowd with enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the provider community and the state’s healthcare initiatives. "The provider community in Oklahoma is going to be so important to the success of this program," she stated, highlighting the pivotal role that healthcare providers will play in the upcoming SoonerSelect program.

The meeting focused on five key goals aimed at enhancing healthcare for Oklahomans. First and foremost, Bittner stressed the commitment to improving health outcomes by prioritizing prevention and primary care. This shift aims to create a healthier population and elevate the overall health standards in the state.

Another significant change involves moving towards value-based payments, which will reward providers for quality care rather than the volume of services rendered. This approach is designed to foster better patient outcomes and satisfaction, a sentiment echoed throughout the meeting. Bittner noted, "Our members deserve the best possible healthcare experience," and outlined plans to streamline access to services and enhance care coordination.

Cost containment was also a critical topic, with Bittner explaining that improved coordination of services could lead to more predictable costs for the state. By integrating medical, behavioral, and dental care, the program aims to provide comprehensive support for members while managing expenses effectively.

The introduction of plan partners was another highlight of the event. Bittner welcomed representatives from various organizations, including DentaQuest and Aetna Better Health of Oklahoma, who will collaborate to ensure the success of SoonerSelect. She emphasized that these partners were selected through a competitive bidding process, ensuring that only the most qualified organizations would manage the program.

As the meeting progressed, Traylor Raines, the state Medicaid director, took the stage to provide further insights into the program's design. He expressed gratitude for the strong turnout and reiterated the importance of provider involvement in shaping the future of healthcare in Oklahoma.

With a focus on proactive, preventive care, the SoonerSelect program is set to allocate a significant portion of medical spending—11%—to primary care, nearly tripling current investments. This commitment aims to address health issues before they escalate, ultimately improving the quality of life for Oklahomans.

As the town hall concluded, the sense of optimism was palpable. The collaborative spirit among providers and state officials signaled a promising future for Oklahoma's healthcare landscape, one where the needs of the community take center stage. The discussions held that day marked a significant step towards a more integrated and effective healthcare system, leaving attendees hopeful for the changes ahead.