Holton Community Hospital Participates in the Medicare Shared Savings Program
At Holton Community Hospital, we know how important trust and clear communication are when it comes to your healthcare. Beginning January 1, 2026, Holton Community Hospital is partnering with Belong Health Accountable Care Organization (ACO) as part of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Medicare Shared Savings Program. This partnership does not change your Medicare benefits, does not affect the amount you pay for care, and does not limit your choice of healthcare providers. Some patients may receive informational mailings or emails from Belong Health related to this CMS program. We understand that false information and email scams are a real concern today, and we want to reassure you that this program is an official CMS initiative designed to support care coordination for Medicare patients.
The Medicare Shared Savings Program brings together health systems, clinics, physicians, and other healthcare providers to coordinate care for Medicare beneficiaries. Through this program, providers work collaboratively to support quality care, improve the patient experience, and help patients stay as healthy as possible.
What Is an Accountable Care Organization (ACO)?
An Accountable Care Organization, or ACO, is a group of doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers who work together to coordinate care for patients. ACOs partner with Medicare and agree to be accountable for the quality and cost of care delivered to Medicare beneficiaries. The goal is to improve care coordination and support a better overall healthcare experience.
What Is the Medicare Shared Savings Program?
The Medicare Shared Savings Program is a Medicare initiative designed to support coordinated care management and healthcare navigation for Medicare beneficiaries. It is one of Medicare’s value-based care models focused on helping patients receive the right care at the right time, while improving communication and coordination across healthcare providers.
Participation in MSSP does not change Medicare benefits or limit where patients receive care.
How Do Medicare Patients Participate?
If you regularly receive primary care services from a Holton Community Hospital provider, Medicare may automatically assign you to the ACO based on where you receive most of your care. There are no enrollment form and no action required on your part. Assignment is determined by Medicare using claims data.
How Patients May Benefit from the Medicare Shared Savings Program
Through Holton Community Hospital’s participation in an ACO, patients may have access to additional care coordination support. Healthcare can be complex, and a coordinated care team can help patients better understand and manage their health. This support may include:
- Helping you understand what care you may need next
- Assisting with scheduling appointments
- Increasing access to healthcare providers, both in person and online
- Helping ensure tests and appointments are appropriate and necessary
- Connecting you with local services or support resources
- Helping ensure medications are safe to take together
- Identifying potential health concerns early
- Answering questions about your care
What Changes Should Medicare Patients Expect?
Patients will continue seeing their regular healthcare providers. In addition, some patients may have access to care coordination services to help manage health conditions and navigate healthcare services. Care team members may assist with appointments, local resources, and understanding Medicare benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I still be able to choose my healthcare providers, including specialists?
Yes. Participation in the ACO does not limit your choice of providers. You may continue seeing your primary care provider and any specialists of your choice. The Medicare Shared Savings Program does not replace Medicare or change Medicare benefits. You may choose or change your main doctor at any time.
Does being part of an ACO cost me anything?
No. There is no cost to participate. Your Medicare benefits will not change, and you may continue to visit any healthcare 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.
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 supports your healthcare, contact your healthcare professional. Click HERE to go to HCH Family Medicine Clinics page.
To learn more about the Medicare Shared Savings Program, visit Medicare.gov.
