Physicians leading more than half of first Medicare ACOs

Physicians are leading more than half of the first Medicare Shared Savings accountable care organizations (ACOs), which pleases the American Medical Association (AMA).

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced recently that it has entered into agreements with 27 ACOs under the Shared Savings Program, which allows ACOs to share in savings realized through improved care.

"Allowing physicians in all practice settings and sizes to participate increases the number of Medicare ACOs and maximizes the benefits for patients, physicians, taxpayers, and the Medicare system as a whole," says AMA President Peter Carmel, MD.