ValueBlue and ValueBlue Connect

Last Updated: Monday, August 24, 2026

Introducing ValueBlue and ValueBlue Connect for Primary Care in 2027

Highmark is reimagining how we partner with primary care providers (PCPs) to better support our shared goals of delivering high-quality, high-value care to Highmark members. That means focusing on population management that links patient outcomes – not visits – to reimbursement.

To accomplish this, we’re launching ValueBlue and ValueBlue Connect, new and innovative partial capitation plus incentive models, set to begin in 2027. The programs recognize the importance of the relationship you have with our members. This new approach also rewards you for your high-quality care and effective management of their health.

Key Features

ValueBlue - Partial Capitation Model

Simplicity and Transparency: Improved access to analytics, easily calculated payments, and consistent attribution
Outcomes over Process: Actionable metrics that reflect real clinical impact

ValueBlue Connect - Incentive Program

Flexibility: Custom incentives to tailor the core program to support provider strengths and areas of opportunity
Clinician-Informed: Provider collaboration and physician input will inform how the program design evolves
Purposeful Incentives: Empowering providers to choose their own goals when it comes to additional bonus opportunities

These new programs do not apply to providers in Delaware, where our current primary care value-based programs will continue.

Western New York’s BestPractice program will continue under the name ValueBlue in 2027.

Base Rate Adjustment: In September, we will communicate the annual base rate adjustment, following our standard process.

Why is Highmark introducing these new programs?

True Performance and our other Value-Based Reimbursement (VBR) programs have helped drive value for our members and primary care providers. We’ve seen success with a partial capitation model in western New York, where preventive care has increased, and avoidable utilization – such as readmissions, emergency department and urgent care use – has declined. To ensure continued progress and to better align with the evolving healthcare landscape, we recognize the need for an updated provider reimbursement approach.

ValueBlue and ValueBlue Connect are designed to enhance focus on prevention, wellness, and early detection to improve the long-term health of our members directly; one focused at the practice level while the other promotes entity-wide collaboration. These new programs simplify our overall reimbursement approach and tailor it to fit different provider needs.

Important Dates

Please review the following critical timeline and administrative details:

Late August	TP Contract Termination	If applicable, you will receive formal termination notices for these programs via U.S. mail in late August.
August 31, 2026	New Amendments	To support your transition to ValueBlue and ValueBlue Connect, amendments will be sent to your practice via email, if applicable.
December 1, 2026	Signature Deadline	The new amendments for ValueBlue and ValueBlue Connect must be signed and returned to avoid any lapse in your Care Coordination payments. Note: New York providers, including those who already participate in BestPractice, do not need to take action to take part in the ValueBlue program. However, eligible entities must sign the ValueBlue Connect amendment by December 1, 2026.
December 31, 2026	Sunset of Current Programs	The existing True Performance programs in New York, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia will sunset.
April 1, 2027	Fee Schedule Changes	The Primary Care Standard Fee Schedule will be updated. For providers who do not choose to participate in ValueBlue and remain in a fee-for-service model, rates for codes covered under the ValueBlue capitation program will be reduced by approximately 20%. For ValueBlue participants, your base rates for capitated payments in 2027 will be calculated prior to the application of the rate reduction. Note:* Due to partial capitation in the market, the fee schedule reduction does not apply to New York.

Training and Education

We understand that change can bring questions, and we are committed to supporting practices through a smooth transition. We will provide education, training, helpful communications, and resources throughout 2026.

Please check back regularly for updates on training and education opportunities.

Sign up for ValueBlue and ValueBlue Connect

To initiate your participation in ValueBlue and ValueBlue Connect, please click the button below and complete the form.

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To view ValueBlue and ValueBlue Connect user guides/manuals and read program-specific FAQs, you will need to sign into Availity Essentials, navigate to this page on the Provider Resource Center, and click the applicable button below.

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ValueBlue Connect FAQsAuthentication Required

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Contact Us

For answers to additional questions, please fill out the VBR Inquiry Form.