ACCESS Model: What You Need to Know
Last week, CMS launched important information about the Advancing Chronic Care with Effective, Scalable Solutions (ACCESS) Model, and we want to make sure your practice is ready to take advantage of this opportunity.
Key Highlights
- Launch Date: July 1, 2026
- Duration: 10-year voluntary program within Original Medicare
- Goal: Improve care for conditions that affect millions of beneficiaries through innovative, scalable solutions.
Four Clinical Tracks
The ACCESS Model focuses on:
- Early Cardio-Kidney-Metabolic (CKM) Conditions
Hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, and prediabetes. - Established CKM Disease
Diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and heart disease. - Musculoskeletal Chronic Pain
- Behavioral Health
Depression and anxiety.
Flexibility for Your Practice
Here’s the good news: You can participate in just one component. For example, if your team is ready to start with reporting depression and anxiety measures, that’s an option. This flexibility makes it easier for practices to engage without overhauling all workflows at once.
Why This Matters
- Better Outcomes: Supports proactive, coordinated care for chronic conditions.
- Practice Growth: Positions your team as a leader in value-based care.
- Patient Engagement: Helps address behavioral health needs alongside physical health.
Next Steps
- Learn More: Review CMS details here
- Assess Readiness: Identify which track aligns best with your patient population.
- Plan Ahead: Start conversations with your team about workflows for reporting measures.
