What is one requirement under the Medicare Shared Savings Program for ACOs?

One requirement under the Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP) for Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) is that they must serve a minimum of 5,000 patients. This requirement is critical in ensuring that ACOs have a sufficient patient base to be effective in managing care coordination and improving health outcomes. By having at least 5,000 patients, ACOs can leverage economies of scale to implement population health management efforts, improve care delivery, and track performance metrics more effectively.

This patient minimum helps facilitate the financial accountability and shared savings components of the program, as it ensures that ACOs are managing enough healthcare spending and outcomes to make a measurable impact. The focus on care quality and cost control aligns with the MSSP's goals of reducing unnecessary spending while enhancing the overall health of Medicare beneficiaries.