Healthcare Snapshot - March 2024
March 01, 2024
Congress Extends Advanced Alternative Payment Model (AAPM) Incentive Payment for PY2024
It was recently announced that Congress has extended the Advanced Alternative Payment Model (AAPM) incentive payment for 2024. The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024 includes a provision that maintains the AAPM incentive payment at 1.88%. The incentive payment will be achieved by providers participating in an AAPM in 2024 and paid directly to those providers in 2026.
This extension of the AAPM incentive payment is great news for AAPM participants across the country. Although the extension does not maintain the 3.5% incentive from 2023, this temporary extension ensures value-based care providers will once again be eligible to qualify for incentives. It underscores the importance of advancing alternative payment models and recognizing the efforts of providers who prioritize quality care and patient-centered outcomes.
The AAPM incentive payment allows providers to invest in new ways to provide coordinated care and develop an infrastructure to continue participation in the transition to value. Therefore, it is crucial to continue advocating for a long-term extension of this incentive and PSW looks forward to continuing these efforts alongside our network of providers.
CMS Announces New Model for MSSP ACOs
Graphic provided by CMS Model Webpage: ACO Primary Care Flex Model (cms.gov)
CMS recently announced a new voluntary model focused on improving access to high-quality primary care for underserved Medicare populations. The ACO Primary Care Flex Model (ACO PC Flex Model) will be tested within the Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP) with a focus on low-revenue ACOs. The model will offer an advanced shared savings payment and monthly prospective primary care payments to PC Flex ACOs.
More information is expected to be released in a Request for Applications in the second quarter of 2024.
Patient Success Story
A PSW patient recently transitioned to a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) after a hospital stay. While at the SNF, the patient received ongoing support from the PSW post-acute care team. Upon discharge from the SNF, the PSW nurse made a follow-up call and discovered that the patient's orders only included Physical Therapy (PT) and Occupational Therapy (OT) services for home health.
During a medication review, it became evident that the patient required additional assistance in understanding their medication regimen, including which medications to take and which to dispose of. The PSW nurse promptly contacted the patient's Primary Care Provider (PCP) and advocated for the inclusion of home health nursing services.
This coordination ensured that a home health nurse could visit the patient at home, thoroughly review all medications, and align them with the new orders, thus identifying any medications needing disposal. This collaborative effort streamlined the patient's care and enhanced medication management for their continued well-being.
