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At its Spring 2021 Conference, the National Association of Accountable Care Organizations (NAACOS) recognized three ACOs for their outstanding work to improve patient care in their communities.
NAACOS said the three inaugural winners exemplify how ACOs across the country are improving care by addressing food insecurity, making house calls to reduce preventable emergency department visits, and engaging patients in preventive services.
Essentia Health, which serves people across rural Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota, was recognized for its efforts to address food insecurity. Essentia piloted a screening program at three clinics to identify social needs, including food insecurity, transportation issues, and financial strain. Before every visit, patients are asked to complete a questionnaire available through the ACO’s EHR patient portal.