January 6, 2023

Update on launch of the Longitudinal Family Physician Payment Model

On February 1, 2023, family physicians in BC who choose to move to the Longitudinal Family Physician (LFP) Payment Model will be able to start billing under a new portal.

The construction of an entirely new payment system is a monumental task. Staff at Doctors of BC, BC Family Doctors, and the provincial government have been working hard to implement the new system under challenging timelines for a shift of this magnitude. We will continue our work through the month of January, and will provide updates as we move forward in the coming weeks and months.

This newsletter will provide ongoing and timely information to help those of you who are interested in making the change. Please watch for updates to be provided on an ongoing basis. All the information, including your Frequently Asked Questions, will be posted on Doctors of BC and BC Family Doctors dedicated web pages (login required).

Today, we are sharing with you a timeline of what supports and resources you can expect this month, along with key dates to watch for, and information on what you can do to prepare in advance of February 1.

Preparing to make the change

Here is what you can do starting today, and what is coming up in the weeks to come. A timeline of key action items is available in our physician pathway checklist.

Immediately

If you do not have an MSP Facility Number, apply for one for your clinic by submitting an online application or printable form.
Read the information available on the new payment model on the BC Family Doctors and Doctors of BC websites. Check out the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) which are continually updated.
Become a member of BC Family Doctors if you are not already. Detailed billing information will be available on the website, including an interactive LFP Payment Guide, Billing Question Library, and case examples.
Review guidance on group governance agreements.
Watch for upcoming newsletters that will contain information on the billing guide, resources to support you, and online webinars.

Mid-January

Review the new payment guide to be sent to family physicians and posted online. Check out the FAQs, and submit additional questions to LFP.billing@doctorsofbc.ca. We will update the web page regularly.
Watch for invitations to register for online webinars to help you get started and to answer billing questions.

Late January

Registration opens. Confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements and review instructions on how to register for the LFP Payment Model portal.

February 1

Physicians who choose to do so can start billing under the new LFP Payment Model.

Post-February 1

You will receive information on how locums can bill under the payment model.

By July 1

Submit list of active patients on your patient panel.

Mid-year

Doctors of BC and BC Family Doctors will start to work with government on expansion of the payment model to maternity, in-hospital, and long-term care.

No doubt, you will have lots of questions. Please watch for updates throughout the month, keep an eye on FAQs to find responses to your questions, and plan to join one of the online webinars.

Need more information?

Write us

Email: LFP.billing@doctorsofbc.ca

View our information online (member login required)

Doctors of BC: doctorsofbc.ca/new-payment-model
BC Family Doctors: bcfamilydocs.ca/a-new-choice-for-compensation