Podcast Examines Shifts in Medicare Accountable Care Models
A Value-Based Care Insights episode features NAACOS CEO Emily Brower discussing how providers should choose among CMS accountable care options. The conversation covers differences between the LEAD model and MSSP as ACO REACH ends in 2026, with 2027 seen as a key decision point. It emphasizes population and network strengths, long-term investment in care management and population health, and data analytics for managing risk.
The episode features Daniel Marino speaking with Emily Brower, president and CEO of the National Association of ACOs. They examine how providers may choose among CMS accountable care paths as ACO REACH concludes in 2026. The discussion contrasts LEAD with the Medicare Shared Savings Program and marks 2027 as a major planning milestone.
Brower stresses that organizations should evaluate their population and network strengths. Longer-term participation can support sustained spending on care coordination, clinical service redesign, and community health efforts. Strong analytical capabilities can help groups manage financial risk, improve results, and make better value-based choices.
The shift could affect Medicare beneficiaries, clinicians, hospitals, and community groups as accountable care arrangements evolve. If providers choose models aligned with their networks and data capacity, some patients may see more coordinated chronic care and population health outreach. Conversely, transitions and risk decisions may create uncertainty, especially for smaller organizations. The episode’s guidance may shape how leaders plan for 2027, potentially influencing access, quality, and spending across local health systems.