CMS announces two new patient engagement models

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ Innovation Center today announced two Beneficiary Engagement and Incentives Models that will test different approaches to shared decision making regarding treatment options. The Shared Decision Making Model will test a specific approach to integrate a four-step decision making process into the clinical practice of practitioners who are participating accountable care organizations. The Direct Decision Support Model will test an approach to shared decision making provided outside of the clinical delivery system by an organization that provides health management and decision support services. ACOs that are currently in the Medicare Shared Savings Program or Next Generation ACO Model and interested in participating in the SDM Model must submit a Letter of Intent for consideration for participation in the DDS and SDM Models by March 5. Decision Support Organizations that are interested in participating in the DDS Model must submit a Letter of Intent for consideration for participation in the DDS and SDM Models by March 5.