DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dallas Nephrology Associates (DNA), the largest nephrology practice in Texas, has received national recognition for a revolutionary new practice model that has improved patient care and could save payors millions of dollars. DNA has participated in several projects with Medicare that has already resulted in millions of dollars in savings to the agency. Nephrology is the medical specialty dedicated to the study of the kidneys, encompassing their diagnosis, treatment, and management. For many with chronic kidney disease (CKD), this innovative value-based care model has been life-changing.
In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, DNA stands out as a nationwide leader in the nephrology space through its value-based care model. Faced with challenges in the traditional fee-for-service model and a continued annual reduction in Medicare physician reimbursement, DNA reevaluated its care platform in 2016. Through continual monitoring of key metrics, DNA has continued to improve patient outcomes while reducing costs.
“While fee-for-service reimbursement challenges persist, our commitment to improving patient care and slowing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) progression remains steadfast,” said DNA president and CEO Dr. Alexander Liang. “We emphasize teamwork, robust analytics, and continuous improvement—all while adapting to the ever-changing nuances of Medicare.”
Faced with annual decreases for many years in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (proposed average decrease of 2.8 percent for 2025 according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services), DNA recognized the urgent need to pivot its care model. Their response was strategic and comprehensive, focusing on early intervention, continuous treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease patients, and a robust educational initiative. This shift aimed not only to manage costs but to significantly enhance patient care.
By implementing proactive care strategies and investing in patient education, DNA has effectively addressed key areas that impact both the quality of care and financial sustainability. DNA has developed a new internal department called the Population Health Division along with dedicated data analysts and Nurse Care Navigators. The “bottom line” is that DNA is transforming the practice to meet and/or exceed industry benchmarks and total cost risk-sharing arrangements. In fact, DNA, in collaboration with other Texas partners, has realized a shared savings of $32,559,528 since 2016.
The Nurse Care Navigator assists patients every step of the way. Due to the complexities of renal medical conditions, these professionals work with each patient to navigate the complicated kidney disease journey in order to receive the right care at the right time.
“Our goal is to guide patients to receive the level of care they need when they need it,” said Dr. Alexander Liang, DNA President and CEO. “Our approach is simple. Give patients quality care and education, and that leads to patients being able to make informed choices and better participate in their care. Our model has led to an enhancement in our patient engagement, lower no-show rates and improved efficiency.”
DNA's commitment to value-based care has now garnered significant recognition. In 2024, DNA was honored with the Exemplary Practice Award from the Renal Physicians Associates, a prestigious accolade given to only one practice in the United States each year. This award highlights DNA's leadership in navigating Medicare fee schedule cuts while delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.
“It was such an honor to be recognized by our peers,” said Dr. Liang. “We hope that other care providers can take our model and adapt it to their practices. We truly believe our evolving value-based care approach will be the best model not only now, but also well into the future.”
