CMS Launches ACCESS Model to Advance Technology-Supported Chronic Care

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has introduced the Innovation Center ACCESS Model (Advancing Chronic Care with Effective, Scalable Solutions), aiming to modernize the digital health ecosystem and enhance Medicare beneficiaries' access to technology-supported care. Launching in July 2026, the ACCESS Model creates a new payment structure rewarding health outcomes rather than compliance activities, addressing chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic musculoskeletal pain, and depression that affect a significant portion of Medicare recipients. This model integrates with existing healthcare frameworks, allowing primary care providers to collaborate with ACCESS participants as extended care teams, improving chronic condition management through innovative technologies. Over 350 technology-driven care organizations have already expressed intent to participate, highlighting the industry's interest in advancing digital health solutions. Concurrently, the FDA unveiled the Technology-Enabled Meaningful Patient Outcomes (TEMPO) pilot, which complements the ACCESS Model by assessing the real-world performance of digital health devices used in chronic disease management, enhancing understanding of device efficacy and patient outcomes. Multiple clinical societies, patient groups, and payer consortia have voiced support for these initiatives, reflecting a collaborative effort to expand technology-enabled care at a national scale. Stakeholders and interested organizations are encouraged to engage with the CMS by submitting interest forms to participate in this forward-looking model that aims to reshape chronic care delivery through digital innovation.