Medicare Shared Savings Program
Transforming Healthcare through Collaboration, Quality, and Patient Experience
Holton Community Hospital has partnered with Belong Health ACO to participate in the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP). Through MSSP, Medicare brings together providers in Accountable Care Organizations to offer beneficiaries additional coordinated care and services to help them stay as healthy as possible.
What is an ACO?
An ACO, or “accountable care organization,” is a team of doctors, hospitals and other healthcare providers who work together to coordinate care for patients. ACOs have agreed with Medicare to be accountable for care quality and cost. They were created to help improve health outcomes through more effective care coordination.
What is the Medicare Shared Savings Program?
The Medicare Shared Savings Program is a Medicare initiative that partners with health systems, clinics and providers to provide coordinated care management and healthcare navigation assistance for Medicare beneficiaries. The program is one of Medicare’s innovative models aimed at keeping patients as healthy as possible through improved care coordination.
How do I participate in the Medicare Shared Savings Program?
If you’ve been seeing your Holton Community Hospital primary care provider regularly, you are likely already assigned to the ACO based on where you receive most of your care. There is no enrollment form or action needed on your part. Medicare automatically assigns beneficiaries to ACOs based on where they receive their primary care services.
How will you benefit from Holton’s participation in an ACO?
We will help you get the right care at the right time. Healthcare can be confusing. We have a care team who will work with you on your care. Our team may:
- Help you know what care you need to have next.
- Help you set up appointments.
- Help increase access to healthcare providers, both in-person and online.
- Make sure you only have the tests and appointments you need.
- Connect you with local services or support you may need.
- Make sure your medications are safe to take together.
- Spot health problems before they become serious.
- Answer any questions you have about your care.
What changes to my health care should I expect to see as a member of the ACO?
In addition to your regular health care providers, you may have access to care coordination services. Our care team will work with you to coordinate your health conditions and get the services you need. Team members may connect you with health care appointments and local resources. They can also help you understand and use your Medicare benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I still be able to choose my health care providers, including specialists?
Yes. You will still be able to see your primary care provider and other providers of your choice, including specialists. Joining the ACO will not restrict your physician network. The Medicare Shared Savings Program does not replace your Medicare or in any way change your Medicare benefits. You can choose or change your main doctor any time.
Does being part of an ACO cost me anything?
There is no cost to you, your Medicare benefits will not change, and you can visit any health care provider or hospital that accepts Medicare.
Can I opt out of the program?
You may not opt out of the program because participation is through your provider, but you can opt out of data sharing that is utilized for additional care coordination support. Â
If you wish to opt out of data sharing, contact Belong Health ACO at 800-862-0608, or call Medicare at 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227). TTY users should call 877-486-2048.
If I opt out of data sharing, will I still be able to see my Holton Community Hospital primary care provider?
Yes, you will still be able to see your Holton primary care provider if you opt out of data sharing.
Questions?
For questions about how the Medicare Shared Savings Program helps your health, contact your health care professional.
Click here to learn more about the Medicare Shared Savings Program.
Â
