Accountable Care Organization (ACO) Notice Mailed to Medicare Patients

 Artesia General Hospital is participating in an Accountable Care Organization (ACO) as part of our ongoing commitment to coordinated, high-quality care. Over the coming weeks, Medicare patients will receive (or may have already received) a notice informing them of this participation. This notice is for informational purposes only; no action is required on your part.

What is an Accountable Care Organization?

An ACO is a group of doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers who voluntarily come together to provide coordinated care to Medicare patients. The goal is to ensure you receive the right care at the right time, while avoiding unnecessary duplication of services and preventing medical errors.

What Does This Mean for You?

• No Change in Benefits: Your Medicare benefits remain the same.
• Freedom of Choice: You can continue to see any doctor, hospital, or healthcare provider that accepts Medicare.
• Improved Care Coordination: Our participation in an ACO aims to enhance the quality and efficiency of the care you receive.

We value your trust and are dedicated to providing you with the highest standard of care. If you have any questions or need further information, please contact your provider or care team.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accountable Care Organization Notices

Why did I receive this Notice?

You received this notice because AGH is participating in an Accountable Care Organization (ACO). This does not limit your choice of healthcare providers or affect your Medicare benefits.

What is an ACO?

An ACO is a group of doctors and healthcare providers who work together to coordinate care for Medicare patients, improving outcomes and avoiding duplication of services.

Is my Medicare coverage changing?

No. Your rights and benefits remain the same. You can still see any provider that accepts Medicare.

What information will the ACO access?

Details of your past doctor, hospital, and pharmacy visits. This helps your care team coordinate and avoid unnecessary repeat services.

How does this help my doctor?

Doctors in an ACO have more resources, tools, and communication to manage your care effectively and reduce paperwork or redundant testing.

Can I still see my regular providers?

Yes. You may see any doctor, hospital, or provider who accepts Medicare.

Do I have to participate?

No. Patients are not enrolled. Only providers participate in the ACO. Your care and coverage remain the same.

Does this cost me anything?

No. There is no cost to you. AGH’s participation does not impact your Medicare billing.

Why is my health data being shared?

Medicare shares information with ACOs to support care coordination. This helps your care team see the bigger picture and avoid duplicated care.

Who receives my information?

Only ACO-participating providers and staff involved in your care. Data is not shared outside the ACO. You can opt out of sharing at any time.

How can I stop Medicare from sharing my data?

Call 1-800-MEDICARE and request that your health data not be shared with the ACO. Changes take effect in about 45 days.

Do I need to opt out again each year?

No. If you opted out previously, your preference remains in effect unless you change it.