Issue link: https://beckershealthcare.uberflip.com/i/170040
38 ASCs also have to consider whether they have the infrastructure to support ACO participation. For example, CMS ACOs have HIT requirements, and those requirements could potentially extend to the ASC. In some cases, you may not want to be part of the ACO, but you can enter into a preferred provider relationship. Look at the types of constraints the ACO would put on you and make sure you have the flexibility you need. Q: Are there any special considerations for becoming part of a CMS ACO versus other ACOs? SR: If you are going to have a relationship with a CMS ACO, you need electronic medical record capability, even if you aren't officially a participant. Data can be a consideration for ASCs in another way as well. To build the ASC's value proposition, whether for a CMS ACO, a private ACO, or even to payors and patients, you need data to support it. Data will also be useful when you are at the point of saying you can give a fixed price. Coding, Billing & Collections Register Today! 20th Annual Ambulatory Surgery Centers — Improving Profitability and Business and Legal Issues Conference October 24-26, 2013 • Swissotel • Chicago Keynotes: David Feherty, CBS Golf Commentator and Best Selling Author, Rick Pitino, Head Men's Basketball Coach University of Louisville, Bob Woodward, Legendary Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist/ Author and Associate Editor, The Washington Post, Bonnie Blair, Speed Skating Champion and Gold Medalist Q: Do you see ACOs becoming a standard in the future? SR: It's hard to predict how the variety of ACO types will do and whether the administrative burden of CMS-sponsored ACOs will become an issue; that's one reason why ASCs that can demonstrate quality outcomes and costeffectiveness may want to contract with them but not become a part of them. I think it will be smart for ASCs to maintain independence and flexibility but still partner with the ACO to give them room to see how the market will shake out. Some specialists are still taking a cautious role in becoming a part of ACOs, which is understandable, but you will have to work with new types of arrangements at some point. n Great business focused meeting for Ambulatory Surgery Centers 132 plus speakers; 87 plus sessions For more information, call (800) 417-2035