CMS to launch new primary care model

Last week, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced plans to test a Medicare and Medicaid primary care model in eight states starting in July 2024. The eight states are Colorado, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina and Washington. The voluntary Making Care Primary Model will run through 2034 and build on other value-based models. CMS said the model would improve care management and coordination, equip primary care clinicians with tools to form partnerships with health care specialists and leverage community-based connections to address patients’ health needs and their health-related social needs, such as housing and nutrition. The agency plans to work with participants to address priorities specific to their communities. CMS asks interested organizations to submit a letter. (CMS news release, 6/8/23)