In August, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule canceling the Advancing Care Coordination through Episode Payment for AMI and CABG and Cardiac Rehabilitation Incentive Payment Models, which were originally slated to begin Jan. 1, 2018.

After consideration and member input, your ACC submitted comments to CMS outlining concerns with the proposed cancellation, specifically noting issues with the construction of the AMI episode and asking CMS for greater transparency on model development and implementation so providers can invest wisely in preparing for participation in alternative payment models.

"The College believes that value-based payment models have significant potential to enhance patient care and shares the CMS goals of improving quality of care while lowering the costs for Medicare beneficiaries… ACC is specifically requesting that CMS seek the guidance of specialty societies in the design of the model prior to soliciting applications and securing participant agreements. Timeliness is particularly important to give providers adequate time to prepare and transition for calendar year 2018."

CMS will consider the public comments submitted by ACC and other stakeholders. A final rule is expected later this year.

Clinical Topics: Cardiovascular Care Team

Keywords: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S., Cardiac Rehabilitation, Medicaid, Medicare, Health Expenditures, Quality of Health Care

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