CMS Launches ACCESS Model to Advance Technology-Enabled Chronic Care

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is set to initiate the Medicare Advancing Chronic Care with Effective, Scalable Solutions (ACCESS) Model. This 10-year program aims to enhance access to technology-driven care for Medicare beneficiaries managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic musculoskeletal pain, and depression. It emphasizes outcome-aligned payments, where reimbursements to provider organizations will be contingent upon achieving specific clinical improvements relative to a baseline. By integrating wearable monitoring devices and coaching applications, the ACCESS Model seeks to support beneficiaries in both prevention and management of chronic health issues. This initiative reflects CMS's strategic focus on leveraging technology and value-based care incentives to improve chronic disease outcomes and potentially reduce healthcare costs over time.