Drafted by the AAOS Health Care Systems Committee, the comments urge CMS to “clearly define the timetable for distribution of shared savings and also provide a transparent appeal system…in advance of any ACO beginning operations.” The letter also champions the idea that specialists should have the opportunity to develop payment distribution contracts supporting improved patient-level outcomes and cost reduction within an ACO.
The organization also asked that appropriate use criteria for referrals to specialists be defined, appropriate indications for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions be specified and specialty care-related performance measures are devised.
Read the report on the AAOS comments on ACOs.
Related Articles on ACOs:
What ACOs Mean for Orthopedic Practices, Surgery Centers: Q&A With Michael Redler of Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center
6 Questions on Whether ACOs Will Assist Pain Management
6 Things to Know About Spine Surgeon Involvement in ACOs
