CMS proposes changes to bolster ACOs

CMS has released a proposal to strengthen the Shared Savings Program for Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) by placing more emphasis on primary care services and promoting transitions to performance-based risk arrangements. CMS proposes to refine the way Medicare beneficiaries are assigned to an ACO to place greater emphasis on primary care services delivered by nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and clinical nurse specialists, and to allow certain specialists not associated with primary care to participate in multiple ACOs.  

CMS is also seeking comment on adjustments to improve the Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP), including proposals to provide more flexibility for ACOs seeking to renew participation in the program, to encourage ACOs to take on greater performance-based risk and reward, as well as proposals for alternative methodologies for benchmarks and for streamlining data sharing and reducing administrative burden.

The MSSP now includes more than 330 ACOs in 47 states, providing care to more than 4.9 million beneficiaries in Medicare fee for service.

Source: CMS