MassHealth introduced Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) in 2018 as an option for most of its members under age 65. As of June 2023, over 1.3 million members – more than half of MassHealth’s total membership – are enrolled in one of 17 MassHealth ACOs. The ACO program has the potential to improve members’ care experiences and health outcomes and moderate the costs to the state over the long term. MassHealth also recently made changes to the ACO model to reduce entrenched health disparities.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation developed a report as a resource for stakeholders to help explain the key elements of MassHealth ACOs, including the two types, who they serve, and the services they provide. It includes information on the following:
- The history, structure, key features, and payment model of the ACO program.
- Information on who is eligible for MassHealth ACOs, the enrollment process, and ACO enrollment as of June 2023.
- Details on enhanced services that are provided to certain ACO members.
- A review of what is known about how ACOs have performed to date.
Contact: 617.246.6783.