January 13, 2023

Update on the launch of the Longitudinal Family Physician Payment Model

The purpose of this newsletter is to provide the latest updates on the implementation of the Longitudinal Family Physician (LFP) Payment Model, as we approach the start date of February 1. We want to ensure that you have the information you need to help you decide if and when you should join the new payment model, and how to get started.

In this edition, we are providing specific dates when you can expect to receive the Payment Schedule, and other supporting information/materials. We are also answering some of the frequently asked questions we have received.

Check out the updated physician pathway checklist for a quick reference on important upcoming dates.

What you can do now

Register for our webinars. They will outline how to get started with the LFP Payment Model and answer your billing questions. The webinars will be held January 24 and January 26, and will be recorded and posted on our websites for those who cannot make these dates. Registration links are available below.

January 20

Our goal is to get the Payment Schedule and supporting information to you by January 20. We expect that physicians will be able to start registering for the LFP Payment Model by this date. Information on how to enroll will also be sent to you when it becomes available.

January 24 and 26

Webinars will take place on January 24 and January 26 from 6-7:30pm. These 90 minute online sessions will provide family physicians with detailed information about the LFP Payment Model. Topics include: how to enroll, and information about billing under the LFP Payment Schedule. A Q&A will also take place.

As space is limited, webinar registration is open only to family physicians and residents. Please only register for one session, as they are both identical in format and content.

February 1

Physicians who are eligible and have enrolled can bill under the LFP Payment Model.

Here are some FAQs based on questions you are asking:

When will locums be able to bill under the LFP Payment Model?

Doctors of BC, BC Family Doctors, and government have reached agreement on how locums will be paid under the new model. They will bill for time spent providing care for patients and patient interactions. They will not receive a panel payment based on the size or complexity of the patient panel.

We are working to get the billing system for locums set up as quickly as possible, and will send out a more specific timeline soon.

On the physician checklist, you advise that those who are interested in enrolling should ensure we have a facility number. How do I get a facility number?

A facility number is not required to enroll in the LFP Payment Model; however, it is required to submit claims under the LFP Payment Model.

If you receive the Business Cost Premium, then you already have a facility number. You can obtain it from the physician responsible for administration of the facility (the facility administrator). Physicians are advised to confirm that their clinic has a facility number as soon as possible, to allow billing under the LFP Payment Model as of February 1.

If a clinic does not have a facility number, the facility administrator must apply for a number by submitting the “Application for MSP Facility Number (New)” form. Each location must obtain a unique facility number.

Online application
Fill and print: Application for MSP Facility Number (New)

Note: Ensure that only one application for a facility number is submitted for each facility.

How do I cancel or change details for a facility?

If there are any changes to the information for the facility after the application for a facility number has been submitted, then the facility administrator must submit the “Application to Cancel or Change Details for Facilities with an MSP Facility Number” form.

How long does it take to receive a facility number?

After an online form is filled in, if all the information is correct and the application is successfully submitted, a facility number and confirmation is immediately generated. This confirmation can be downloaded, or printed and saved. A paper confirmation is also mailed to the applicant.

If there is any issue after completion of the form, a facility number is not generated, but you will receive a reference number letting you know there was an issue. Health Insurance BC (HIBC) will contact the applicant within 2 to 3 business days.

If a printable paper form was submitted, you will receive a facility number within two weeks. If you have not received it within this time period, please call HIBC (Toll-free: 1 800 663-7100/Lower Mainland: 604 683-7151) for a status update.

When I applied for a facility number why was it taking me to the Business Cost Premium webpage?

Previously, a facility number was only required for clinics who wished to receive the Business Cost Premium. Links are being updated so this will no longer happen.

What is the difference between information that will be available on the Doctors of BC website, and information that will be available on the BC Family Doctors website?

While both websites will host the high-level FAQs and the Payment Schedule document, BC Family Doctors’ member-only website area will have more detailed billing information available. This includes an interactive and comprehensive LFP Payment Guide, Billing Question Library, and case examples. To access this more detailed information, become a member of BC Family Doctors, if you are not already.

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