• The Accountable Care Organization (ACO) is a model based on the idea that groups of providers come together and take responsibility for delivering care to the patient. What are two ideas you have for ACOs to manage costs?For example, describe what measures can be taken at each touch point of care that will ultimately improve outcomes while reducing the cost of care.Hint: The Joint Commission's (TJC's) ORYX Clinical Quality Accountability Measures are used by all hospitals in the U.S. to meet regulatory requirements and to earn hospital accreditation. Review the ORYX measures athttps://www.jointcommission.org/accountability_measures.aspxand review the best practice for initial treatment of myocardial infarction (heart attack).

• Results of interventions and use of measures are available athttps://www.medicare.gov/hospitalcompare/search.html?.

• ACOs address cost reduction through various methods. Consider sites of care (e.g., nursing homes, rehab facilities, and home care), use of case managers and coaches, and ultimately the role of the patient. Also consider preventive medicine for at-risk patients (Buchbinder, 1, p. 254). (20 points)