Confused About Accountable Care Organizations ACOs? We Explain It Simply!

Ever heard the term ACO but are unsure exactly what it means? You're not alone! Accountable Care Organizations ACOs are a relatively new concept in healthcare, and navigating the jargon can be confusing. But fear not, this guide will break down these organizations into bite-sized pieces, making them easy to understand.

What Exactly is an ACO?

An ACO is a group of healthcare providers – including hospitals, doctors, and other specialists – who come together to coordinate patient care. They work as a team to ensure patients receive the right care at the right time, all while aiming to control costs and improve health outcomes.

Think of it this way: 

Traditionally, healthcare providers might operate in silos. A patient might see their primary care physician, then a separate specialist, and receive conflicting advice. ACOs bridge this gap, fostering communication and collaboration to provide a more unified care experience.

The Top Features of Accountable Care Organizations ACOs

• Focus on preventative care 

An ACO prioritizes preventive measures to keep patients healthy and avoid unnecessary hospital admissions. This might involve regular checkups, screenings, and healthy lifestyle recommendations.

 

• Shared responsibility 

They are financially accountable for the total cost of care provided to their assigned patient population. This incentivizes them to be efficient and deliver cost-effective care.

 

• Performance-based payments 

Further, they can earn bonuses for achieving quality care benchmarks while controlling costs. This rewards them for delivering positive health outcomes for their patients.

How Do ACOs Reach Patients?

The ACO typically targets a specific patient population,  often defined geographically.  For example, all residents within a particular zip code might be eligible for care from a specific ACO. Patients can choose to receive care from an organization if they want a more coordinated approach to their healthcare.

The Gains

 

• Improved care coordination 

With all providers working together, patients can experience smoother transitions between different healthcare settings, reducing confusion and duplication of services.

 

• Focus on preventive care 

They prioritize preventative measures, potentially leading to fewer illnesses and hospitalizations in the long run.

 

• Potential cost savings 

By focusing on efficiency and reducing unnecessary care, ACOs can contribute to lower overall healthcare costs.

On an Ending Note 

While Accountable Care Organizations ACOs hold promise for the future of healthcare, it's important to remember they are still evolving.  If you're considering receiving care through an ACO,  be sure to ask questions and understand how it would work for you.

Connect with Persivia to integrate the top ACO Reach model into your system. Get a quote now!