CMS adjusts shared savings program for ACOs in disaster-affected areas

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid services yesterday published an interim final rule modifying financial and quality performance requirements for Medicare Shared Savings Program accountable care organizations located in areas affected by extreme and uncontrollable circumstances, such as hurricanes and wildfires. Effective Jan. 20, the rule provides some relief from quality reporting requirements and potential shared losses for affected ACOs in 2017. CMS will accept comments on the rule through Feb. 20.