Contact: Beth Casteel, bcasteel@acc.org, 202-375-6275

WASHINGTON (Jul 25, 2016) -

American College of Cardiology President Richard A. Chazal, M.D., FACC, made this statement on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services proposed regulation on bundle care models for cardiac care:

The American College of Cardiology supports the movement toward value based care. Improving quality care and value are central to the ACC’s strategic plan. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services proposed regulation on bundled care models for heart attack and bypass surgery, along with a payment incentive model intended to increase utilization of cardiac rehabilitation, represent efforts in this direction. In addition, CMS is moving in the right direction by proposing tracks under these new models that may qualify as Advanced Alternative Payment Models under MACRA — providing new ways for specialists to be rewarded for delivering quality care.

While we support the concept, it is important that bundled care models be carried out in such a way that clinicians are given the time and tools to truly impact patient care in the best ways possible. Changes in payment structures in health care can pose significant challenges to clinicians and must be driven by clinical practices that improve patient outcomes. We are optimistic that CMS will listen to comments, incorporate feedback from clinicians, and provide ample time for implementation of these new payment models. Our ultimate goal is to improve patient care and to improve heart health.

The American College of Cardiology is a 52,000-member medical society that is the professional home for the entire cardiovascular care team. The mission of the College is to transform cardiovascular care and to improve heart health. The ACC leads in the formation of health policy, standards and guidelines. The College operates national registries to measure and improve care, offers cardiovascular accreditation to hospitals and institutions, provides professional medical education, disseminates cardiovascular research and bestows credentials upon cardiovascular specialists who meet stringent qualifications. For more, visit acc.org.

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