ACOs

Unlocking the Potential: Overcoming Challenges for LTPAC Providers in ACO Participation

by

Yesterday, the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living plus the National Assocation of ACOs released a white paper that includes a set of recommendations for CMS, designed to increase the participation of long term and post-acute care (LTPAC) providers in accountable care organizations (ACOs).  The white paper is available here: AHCA … Read more

Value-Based Care: What it is and How it Can Work for Post-Acute Providers

by

I get asked about value-based care a lot. It is a buzzword or term these days, somewhat driven by the rise in Medicare Advantage enrollment. Frankly, it is a bit of a catch-all concept that has its origins in Medicare and various demonstration projects (e.g., bundled payments) and the implementation of quality measures to “improve … Read more

Value-Based Care: Why it Matters, or Should, for Post-Acute Providers

by

Value-Based Care is kind of a vogue term, one that I encounter quite often. I also have used it when speaking or writing and know most people have no idea what it means or how it can be developed and/or applied. Value-based care is not a new concept. Medicare tried a foray into it back … Read more

First Glimpse at ACO Results

by

A cornerstone of health policy arising from health care reform is the formation of Accountable Care Organizations.  The premise is that an organizational structure focused on improving patient care and satisfaction, in a coordinated fashion, would improve quality and thus, reduce cost. The policy implication is that on a shared incentive basis, organizations at-risk, would … Read more

Accountable Care Organizations: A Post-Acute Perspective

by

Suffice to say, I am behind in getting this post “out”.  My best intentions of a month or so ago were quickly dashed by other more pressing commitments. Nonetheless, I did read the proposed regulations as produced by the Department of Health and Human Services/CMS on April 7 and worked through a stack of research on the subject of Accountable … Read more

CMS, Proposed ACO Regulations and a Post-Acute Analysis

by

Late last week, CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) issued the proposed regulations for Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). As is typical with CMS and all things PPACA related, the document is nearly 500 pages. I have read and begun to digest (creating of course, indigestion) the entirety of the document. As I have prepared … Read more