The provider payment system has become output-based, and payment mechanisms are geared to the type of service provided rather than the type of institution responsible for provision. Family doctor services are paid through capitation, outpatient specialist care through a fee-for-service point system, acute inpatient services through a payment system based on diagnosis-related groups (DRGs) and chronic care through per diem rates. Special rules apply to certain services, such as emergency patient transfers. Physicians are either salaried employees or private entrepreneurs contracted by the NHIFA, whereas other health professionals are mostly paid by salary. .
