Pioneer ACO Model

The Pioneer ACO Model is an initiative launched by the CMS Innovation Center designed: 1) to show how particular ACO payment arrangements can best improve care and generating savings for Medicare; 2) to test alternative program designs to inform future rulemaking for the Medicare Shared Savings Program; 3) for organizations with experience operating as ACOs or in similar arrangements, with a requirement that participating ACOs engage in similar arrangements with commercial and other payers. The Pioneer ACO Model is separate and distinct from the Medicare Shared Savings Program and other ACO initiatives.