CMS to Allow ACOs to Join Forthcoming CPC+ Model

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has opened up its new Comprehensive Primary Care Plus (CPC+) initiative to 1,500 eligible primary care practices currently in the Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP).

Announced in April, the CPC+ model will aim to transform how primary care is delivered and paid for in America. Building on the Comprehensive Primary Care initiative, the model will be implemented in up to 20 regions and can accommodate up to 5,000 practices, which would encompass more than 20,000 doctors and clinicians and the 25 million people they serve. Primary care practices will participate in one of two tracks. Practices in Track 2 will provide more comprehensive services for patients with complex medical and behavioral health needs.

Citing stakeholders' input on this issue, the recent CMS announcement underscores how dual participation in CPC+ and an MSSP accountable care organization (ACO) may enhance the coordination of care for Medicare beneficiaries and help to achieve stated aims of better care, smarter spending, and healthier people.