Shared Savings offers rewards for ACOs in underserved areas, but others can benefit

Why This Topic Matters

The article helps stakeholders understand which ACOs may benefit from CMS’s finalized shared-savings changes, what program operations are being adjusted, and how the updates may influence participation, reporting, and performance measurement.

Article Sections

1. How the payments work

   Explains the new incentive framework for certain ACOs and the factors CMS uses to target support toward underserved communities. It also discusses broader participation and retention goals for the program.

2. For the rest

   Summarizes additional program adjustments available to other ACOs that may not qualify for the largest incentives. It focuses on changes affecting risk participation and quality performance calculations.

3. New CQMs loom

   Covers upcoming changes in quality reporting for Shared Savings ACOs and the transition away from an older reporting method. It also discusses operational implications for ACOs preparing for the new requirements.

4. More changes finalized

   Reviews additional technical and methodological revisions finalized by CMS for the program. This section covers beneficiary assignment, data timing, and benchmark methodology updates.