The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued a final rule to implement the voluntary Medicare Shared Savings Program. Under the Program, groups of medical providers can apply to participate as Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). Previously, we circulated an in-depth alert addressing the proposed rule and practical considerations to be taken into account by organizations evaluating whether to form or join an ACO.

The final rule was published in the Federal Register on November 2nd. Among the highlights of changes from the proposed rule incorporated into the final rule are...