ACOs improve patient care and save $1.29 billion since 2012

CMS reports that between 2012 and 2015, accountable care organizations (ACO) have generated more than $1.29 billion in total Medicare savings. In 2015 alone, all 392 Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP) participants and 12 Pioneer ACO Model participants saved a combined $466 million while improving care quality.

“The coordinated, physician-led care provided by Accountable Care Organizations resulted in better care for over 7.7 million Medicare beneficiaries while also reducing costs,” said CMS Acting Administrator Andy Slavitt in the press release. “I congratulate these leaders and look forward to significant growth in the program in the coming year.” 

Since 2012, MSSPs’ quality scores have increased 21%, with nine out of 12 MSSPs achieving quality scores over 90%. ACOs showed improvement on 84% of quality measures in both 2014 and 2015. ACOs also improved performance on key preventive measures such as including screening for falls risks, depression, blood pressure, and providing pneumonia vaccinations by 15%.

“Accountable Care Organization initiatives in Medicare continue to grow and achieve positive results in providing better care and health outcomes while spending taxpayer dollars more wisely,” said Dr. Patrick Conway, CMS Principal Deputy Administrator and Chief Medical Officer. “CMS continues to work and partner with providers across the country to improve the way health care is delivered in the United States.”