According to the study, “Hospitals and health systems considering ACO participation should assess their capabilities in several key core competencies that will likely be necessary for successful ACO implementation, including IT infrastructure, resources for patient education, team-building capabilities, strong relationships with physicians and other providers and the ability to monitor and report quality data.”
The report also discussed the potential impact of ACOs and addressed research questions including:
• What are the most effective and efficient ways for hospitals and health systems to integrate care and improve performance along the continuum of care?
• What organizational characteristics, structures and processes lead to a high-performing system of care?
• What are the most promising practices and system design elements for reducing health disparities, considering all factors such as organizational elements and social determinants?
• What is the role of the hospital in a new community environment that provides more efficient and effective healthcare ?
Read the entire AHA report on accountable care organizations.
Read other Becker’s coverage on ACOs.
11 Things to Know About Accountable Care Organizations
How Accountable Care Organizations Will Operate Under Healthcare Reform
