Statement on Next Generation ACO Option to Apply for Direct Contracting

By Blair Childs, Senior Vice President, Public Affairs

Premier thanks the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) for giving Next Generation ACOs the option of applying for the second year of Direct Contracting. This provides Next Generation ACOs broader options for continuing in risk-based arrangements when the model is set to conclude in 2021. Next Generation ACOs achieved superior quality improvement and generated significant savings to Medicare while incenting providers to innovate care delivery. Premier appreciates that CMMI recognizes the ongoing commitment of providers in Next Gen. We also look forward to continuing to work with CMMI on improving the Direct Contracting model.