Certified Revenue Cycle Representative (CRCR) Practice Exam

What will the ACO investment model test regarding pre-paid shared savings?

1. Raise quality ratings in designated hospitals

2. Encourage new ACOs to form in rural and underserved areas

3. Attract physicians to participate in the ACO payment system

4. Invest in treatment protocols that reduce costs to Medicare

The correct answer is: Encourage new ACOs to form in rural and underserved areas

The ACO investment model is designed to test various approaches to enhancing healthcare delivery and improving efficiencies within Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). In particular, the focus on encouraging new ACOs to form in rural and underserved areas is crucial because these regions often face significant healthcare access challenges. By incentivizing the establishment of ACOs in these locations, the model aims to improve the quality of care delivered and address the disparities in health services availability. This initiative not only fosters a more robust healthcare system in areas that require it most, but it also aligns with broader goals of equity in healthcare access. Establishing ACOs in these communities can lead to improved coordination of care, which is critical for managing chronic diseases and reducing overall costs. Therefore, by testing this investment model, the aim is to see positive outcomes in both patient care and healthcare costs in rural and underserved populations. Other options focus on different aspects of ACOs, such as quality ratings, physician participation, and treatment protocols, which are not the primary focus of the ACO investment model regarding pre-paid shared savings.