Today, Accountable Care Organizations ACOs have emerged as a pivotal model for delivering efficient and cost-effective treatment. It originated under the Medicare Shared Savings Program, an integral part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010. Initially designed to support Medicare participants, these organizations have expanded to encompass private payer networks.
The ACO Structure
Structured around a patient’s primary care physician (PCP), ACOs extend their reach to include hospitals, pharmacies, specialists, and various service providers. This holistic approach aims to streamline healthcare services and eliminate redundancies for Medicare patients.