Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers.
General
What is a Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP)?
The Medicare Shared Savings Program is an initiative by CMS that allows healthcare providers to form Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) to improve care coordination, enhance quality, and reduce unnecessary costs for Medicare patients.
Why should my practice join an MSSP ACO?
Joining an MSSP ACO can provide financial incentives for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. It also helps practices transition toward value-based care, which is becoming the industry standard.
How does an MSSP ACO benefit my patients?
MSSP ACOs focus on preventive care, care coordination, and reducing hospital readmissions. This leads to better patient outcomes, increased satisfaction, and improved access to necessary healthcare services.
Is joining an MSSP ACO mandatory?
No, participation in an MSSP ACO is voluntary, but it aligns with the overall shift toward value-based care, helping providers stay ahead of future reimbursement models.
Financial and operational benefits
How does an MSSP ACO help my practice financially?
An MSSP ACO allows providers to share in cost savings generated by improving patient care and reducing unnecessary services. If your ACO meets quality and cost benchmarks, you receive a portion of the savings.
Will joining an MSSP ACO increase administrative burdens?
While MSSP ACOs require tracking and reporting quality measures, Curana provides support, data analytics, and tools to help streamline the process and reduce the burden on providers.
Can I still see fee-for-service Medicare patients if I join an MSSP ACO?
Yes, providers in an MSSP ACO continue to receive fee-for-service payments while also benefiting from potential shared savings.
Quality and compliance
What quality metrics do MSSP ACOs measure?
MSSP ACOs focus on metrics such as preventive care, chronic disease management, hospital readmission rates, patient satisfaction, and overall cost efficiency.
How does an MSSP ACO support compliance with CMS regulations?
MSSP ACOs help providers stay compliant with evolving Medicare regulations and quality reporting requirements, reducing the risk of penalties while maximizing reimbursement opportunities.
What happens if my ACO doesn’t achieve cost savings?
Curana models have no downside risk.
