The application is available on the CMS website and will be accepted for the April 1 start date from Dec. 1, 2011 to Jan. 20, 2012. Federal officials will announce the accepted providers on March 16, 2012.
The application looks for information on the legal and governance structure of ACOs, provider participation agreements, data sharing and quality improvement and patient engagement projects. The Medicare Shared Savings Program will grant hospitals and physician groups financial incentives to improve quality and cut costs for Medicare beneficiaries.
Related Articles on ACOs:
Blue Shield of California Names Medical Director of ACOs
CMS to Host Call on ACO Program on Nov. 15
Physician Groups Take New Stance on Medicare ACOs
