Stop it.  I just can't take it anymore.

Another conference, another speaker outlining new models for healthcare and pointing us to the future.

There are great slides, all with the obligatory comparison of different models for holding providers (hospitals and docs) accountable for cost and quality.  We have bundling and gain sharing and case rates and variations on each.

Then at the far right of the slide is the target, where we think this is all headed.  There are lots of words over there, the variation of which is based on the consultant who was consulted.  'Population management' seems to be winning the frequency race.

But isn't this just capitation?

A network of providers at risk for the care delivered to a defined population of patients?

Really?  Are we so scarred by the 90s that we just can't say it?  Or are we so convinced of our verbal powers that speakers think they are fooling people?

Take a deep breath.  Relax, it is not Armageddon.

The experts think we're heading to capitation, at least in some markets for some share of the population. 

Calling it some new $4 phrase is silly.  Call it what it is so we can talk about it straight up.