APG Applauds CMMI Decision to Maintain Direct Contracting Model

February 24, 2022

Washington, DC – The following is a statement from America’s Physician Groups (APG) on today’s announcement by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) regarding the Global and Professional Direct Contracting Model (GPDC) redesign and transition to the Accountable Care Organization (ACO) Realizing Equity, Access, and Community Health (REACH) Model:

“APG is extraordinarily pleased that CMMI decided to keep the direct contracting model with important revisions,” said Don Crane, APG President and CEO. “We welcome these policy changes that give greater emphasis on promoting heath equity, require enhanced provider control, and provide stronger protections for Medicare beneficiaries.”

“We are especially thrilled at the new emphasis on health equity as part of the ACO REACH model,” said Susan Dentzer, APG’s incoming president and CEO, effective March 15.

“From incorporating the word ‘equity’ into the name of the model, to requiring all participating organizations to develop Health Equity Plans, the new parameters of the model will only strengthen our groups’ efforts to eliminate health disparities and produce the best possible health and health care outcomes for all,” said Dentzer. “We look forward to working with our members and with CMMI to produce optimal plans for delivering on the health equity promise.”

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About America’s Physician Groups
America’s Physician Groups is a national association representing more than 335 physician groups with approximately 170,000 physicians providing care to nearly 90 million patients. APG’s tagline, ‘Taking Responsibility for America’s Health,’ represents our members’ vision to move from the antiquated, dysfunctional fee-for-service reimbursement system to a clinically integrated, value-based healthcare system where physician groups are accountable for the coordination, cost, and quality of patient care. Visit us at www.apg.org.

Contact: Greg Phillips, APG Director of Communications, 202-770-1901, gphillips@apg.org