ACO Assignment Improvement Act of 2025
Summary
The "ACO Assignment Improvement Act of 2025" aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act, specifically targeting the Medicare Shared Savings Program. The bill focuses on improving the assignment of beneficiaries within Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). It seeks to include primary care services provided by ACO professionals in the assignment criteria for performance years beginning on or after January 1, 2027.
Expected Effects
This act will likely change how beneficiaries are assigned to ACOs under Medicare. By including primary care services provided by ACO professionals in the assignment criteria, the bill aims to provide a more accurate and comprehensive assessment of patient care and cost savings within the Medicare Shared Savings Program.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially improves the accuracy of beneficiary assignment to ACOs.
- May lead to better coordination of care for Medicare beneficiaries.
- Could incentivize ACOs to focus on primary care services.
- May result in more appropriate allocation of resources within the Medicare system.
- Could lead to greater efficiency and cost savings in the long run.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May increase administrative complexity in assigning beneficiaries.
- Could potentially disadvantage ACOs that do not heavily emphasize primary care.
- The impact on cost savings is uncertain and may not be significant.
- The implementation timeline (2027) delays any immediate benefits.
- Potential for unintended consequences related to access to care.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Medicare program. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. This bill falls under the power of Congress to legislate on matters related to the general welfare through adjustments to existing social programs.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).