In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, primary care practices and federally qualified health centers are facing a significant shift as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) continues to push towards its goal that all Medicare Beneficiaries be under a value-based contract by 2030. Moreover, providers are faced with constant challenges in maintaining sustainable practices with ever increasing administrative burdens, staff shortages, and increasing operational costs. This has prompted a surge in interest among providers to join an accountable care organization (ACO) to access shared savings via new payment models. However, the crucial decision of which ACO to join requires careful consideration of various factors.
If they’re looking to join an ACO in 2025, practices should start their considerations well in advance so they can stay ahead of this year’s August 1st deadline for participation in CMS models in 2025. This timeline allows for comprehensive research and analysis, ensuring that practices align with an ACO that best suits their needs. ACOs can also have a lot of similarities on paper, but with a deliberate approach, providers can avoid the pitfalls of rushing into a decision and instead focus on understanding what each ACO offers, how they manage and operate, and speak to references within the network.