CMS releases final rule on Medicare Shared Savings Program

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services this afternoon released a final rule on changes to the Medicare Shared Savings Program and provisions relating to Medicare payments to providers of services and suppliers participating in Accountable Care Organizations under the MSSP. Among other provisions, CMS finalized allowing non risk-bearing ACOs to participate for an additional agreement period, changing the methodology for assigning beneficiaries to ACOs, creating a third track for MSSP participation, and providing additional data to help ACOs better manage care. The changes apply to existing ACOs and approved ACO applicants participating in the program beginning Jan. 1, 2016. AHA staff are reviewing the rule, and members will receive a Special Bulletin tomorrow with more information.