CMS Launches ACCESS Model to Advance Medicare Chronic Care with Digital Tools

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has introduced the Advancing Chronic Care with Effective, Scalable Solutions (ACCESS) Model, aiming to improve management and prevention for Medicare beneficiaries with chronic conditions like early cardio-kidney-metabolic (CKM) conditions, chronic kidney disease, musculoskeletal pain, and behavioral health issues through advanced digital health tools.

Scheduled to start in July 2026 and span a decade, this initiative marks a paradigm shift by incorporating telehealth software, wearable devices, and mobile applications into traditional Medicare coverage, which historically had limited support for such technologies.

The ACCESS Model proposes a results-based payment system, offering clinicians a consistent payment framework that allows flexibility in employing digital tools to enhance patient health management. By emphasizing health outcomes over service volume, the program encourages innovation in care delivery while aiming at cost efficiencies for Medicare users.

Participation in ACCESS is voluntary. Medicare beneficiaries must be enrolled in Medicare Part B and receive CMS approval to join, while providers must also apply and be approved by the government. Application windows are open from January 1 to April 1, 2026, with enrollment commencing on January 1, 2027, depending on approval timelines.

This initiative reflects CMS's strategy to dismantle previous payment barriers that hindered the adoption of cutting-edge care tools and to facilitate enhanced coordination within care teams. It promotes patient empowerment by expanding care options and integrates technology-supported services into traditional care models.

The ACCESS program also aims to address billing and cost challenges for Medicare beneficiaries, supporting more accessible management of chronic diseases. While detailed specifics on the technology and services provided remain forthcoming, the model represents a significant step toward leveraging digital health solutions within public healthcare funding frameworks.

Overall, ACCESS could reshape chronic care management for the Medicare population by fostering improved health outcomes through integrated technology, innovative payment models, and expanded care choices, positioning CMS at the forefront of healthcare modernization efforts.