HFMA Annual Conference 2019

Raul Vasquez, MD
CEO
Greater Buffalo United Independent Practice Association


Dr. Vazquez is the founder of the Greater Buffalo United Accountable Care Organization (GBUACO). In 2016, the New York State Department of Health authorized GBUACO to operate as a Medicaid accountable care organization (ACO). An ACO is a patient-centered care model that aims to raise patient care quality, reduce costs and streamline health care delivery. GBUACO is the first Medicaid ACO in New York State. GBUACO operates under a value-based payment system. Under a value-based payment system, practitioners in the ACO are incentivized for the quality, and not the quantity, of services rendered. GBUACO’s doctors and health care providers have to meet clearly defined quality standards and metrics that focus on prevention and effectively managing patients with chronic diseases. In June 2009, Dr. Vazquez was nominated by Governor David Paterson, and approved by the New York State Senate, to serve as a member of the New York State Medicaid Advisory Committee. In June 2012, Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Senate approved Dr. Vazquez to serve on the Minority Health Council. Dr. Vazquez has won more than 20 awards for his accomplishments in business, the medical field and advocacy groups. He has served boards for numerous organizations, including: Upstate New York Transplant Services, HEALTHeLINK and WNED-TV. Dr. Vazquez received his undergraduate degree from Fordham University and received his medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo.

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