CMS announced that beginning August 1, 2012 applications will be accepted for the Advance Payment Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) Model that will start January 1, 2013. Originally, applications for this initiative were to be accepted April 1, 2012 for a July 1, 2012 start date. Those organizations interested in the Advance Payment ACO Model must submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) by June 29, 2012 to be considered for the upcoming performance period. Those who submit a NOI, which is not binding, will be eligible to apply for both the Medicare Shared Savings Program and the Advance Payment ACO Model. Click here to submit a NOI.

The Advance Payment ACO Model is designed for physician-based and rural health care professionals who voluntarily work together to provide coordinated, quality care to Medicare patients. Through this initiative, participants will receive monthly payments that can be used toward providing collaborative care.

For more information on ACOs and other models of value-driven healthcare, visit the NCMS resources page at https://www.compassionatecarenc.org/pages/advocacy_govt_affairs/accountable_care.html.