Michael Gold is at the helm of one of the largest medical insurance companies in the state, leading HMSA through major structural changes in the wake of the Affordable Care Act and a new payment system that allows physicians to use information technology to better serve its members.
On the state of health in Hawai‘i:
One of the biggest challenges we face is empowering our members to take an active role in their own health and well-being. We regained our number one spot in the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index last year, but getting to the top and staying there is a community effort. By working together with individuals, employers, health care providers and government and community leaders, we’re making huge strides in building a sustainable health care system that will keep everyone in our state at their healthiest.
On outcome-based payment:
An outcome-based payment model means doctors and hospitals get paid for improving people’s health. To give this model the best chance of success, we need to give doctors the support and tools they need to keep patients healthy so they can avoid expensive medications and treatments down the line. By supporting health, we’re not just helping our industry—we’re helping every business and every individual who has to pay for health care. When health care costs go down, we all benefit. And when we can keep someone healthy and add extra years to their life, it’s a win-win situation for everyone. You can’t put a price tag on that.
