What is a core aim of outcome-based payment models in public health?

• A. To maximize number of services billed
• B. To fund infrastructure primarily
• C. Rewarding providers for outcomes, not volume
• D. To reduce patient choice

Answer: (C)

Outcome-based payment models aim to align incentives with actual health results. They reward providers for achieving measurable improvements in health outcomes, not for the volume of services billed. This encourages effective, quality-focused care and supports population health goals, including reducing disparities, by tying reimbursement to the impact on health rather than just activity.

Choices that emphasize more services, funding infrastructure without accountability for results, or limiting patient choice don’t fit this approach because they don’t incentivize improving measurable outcomes or value-based care.