ACO FAQs

You will still receive your health benefits from Medicare, which aren’t limited or restricted when you’re assigned to or use ACO resources. You always have the right to use any provider, health care professional or hospital accepting Medicare, including those outside Yuma Regional Medical Center. Your doctor or routine health care provider is your choice, and there’s no additional cost associated with participating in the ACO.

Your primary care provider is the first person you turn to for most health concerns. In addition to preventive care, your primary care provider helps you manage chronic diseases and makes sure you address other health issues early on. Studies have shown that people who see a primary care provider regularly enjoy better health.

ACO patients see the provider of their choice. ACO providers are dedicated to providing higher quality care because they share responsibility for the cost and quality of care delivered to their patients. In addition to routine care, an ACO provider focuses on preventive care and managing chronic diseases to keep you healthy, and that decreases costs.

There are no additional costs for participating in an ACO. ACOs are not health insurance plans. ACO providers use a value-based model to get paid: They are rewarded for keeping you healthy and out of the hospital. This differs from the fee-for-service model, in which providers are paid based on the volume of care they provide.

You may not notice any changes. Although your physician may refer you to a doctor within the ACO, you can still see your chosen provider. The only difference you may notice is that someone may call you to ensure you are being seen regularly by your primary care provider or to offer additional support surrounding your appointments, conditions, medications or coordinating your care.

Your group of providers, nurses, and hospital workers will have access to your medical records and can share that information with each other. This allows providers to view all of your medical history so they can provide high-quality care. But we always respect your privacy preferences. You can choose not to share your medical information.

You do not enroll in an ACO. Your insurer has attributed your care to Yuma Regional Medical Center. This means we are responsible for your health and want to partner with you to provide whatever care you need. We also want to make sure you see your primary care provider regularly, as this is an important part of maintaining your health.

No.

No. Unlike managed care, an ACO cannot tell you which health care provider to visit. Your ACO works with you and your provider to ensure you receive the necessary care.

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services – 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
• CVS Accountable Care