Vermont providers back S197, saying capitation, site-neutral pay and scholarship fixes could shore up independent primary care

Vermont clinicians and practice leaders told the Senate Health & Welfare committee on Feb. 5 that S197, a bill to reform primary care payments, could ease financial strain on independent and rural practices but must be rolled out with adequate support and voluntary participation.

Susan Brinson, executive director of Vermont Health First, said the association represents 66 primary and specialty practices in 11 counties and about 235 clinicians who together care for an estimated 90,000 Vermonters. Brinson said she supports S197’s focus on reducing administrative burden, eliminating patient cost-sharing for some primary care services, and introducing capitated payments alongside fee‑for‑service to give practices a predictable revenue stream. "Helping practices to have that predictable income stream and…