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APG Responds to Release of CMS Medicare Shared Savings Program Proposed Rule

"Yesterday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed significant changes to the Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP). Overall, APG considers the proposed rule a very balanced approach to various stakeholders' concerns as well as a positive step forward in the movement from volume to value. It also acknowledges what we already know--two-sided, physician-led Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) not only provide superior quality care at a lower cost, they provide significant savings to the Medicare program--and more importantly, the American taxpayer.

"In this proposed rule, a smooth pathway is provided for physician groups seeking to move into risk, which allows them to tap into other Medicare quality programs including the Quality Payment Program (QPP) and the incentive payments it provides. Moreover, it allows physicians engaged in two-sided models access to additional tools to better coordinate care and provide the type of services patients need, and in the most appropriate setting, including the patient's home.

"We know that many of today's ACOs have experience in upside risk only. The proposed rule acknowledges this and provides for a transition period instead of forcing groups into downside risk right away. We believe that no group should be forced into risk; however, when groups decide to accept the opportunity for shared savings, we also believe that they then should take on the responsibility of saving money for our healthcare system and the people and communities they serve.

"We will continue to work with CMS to find ways to strengthen and improve the Medicare ACO program and further advance the value movement."