Health Endeavors releases ACO WebCenter 1.0 and Physician Alignment WebCenter 2.0

ACO WebCenter Version 1.0 is a web-based product developed to assist hospitals, IPAs and physicians with the implementation of a Medicare or Non-Medicare Accountable Care Organization (ACO). Physician Alignment WebCenter 2.0 is a web-based product utilized by hospitals to enhance physician alignment with medical staff members. The 2.0 version includes a communications portal and Meaningful Use/EMR Center.

“Obama plan for health care quality dealt a setback”

The Associated Press released an article May 11, 2011, "Obama plan for health care quality dealt a setback," based on the premise that the regulations are overly burdensome and complicated. Health Endeavors' CEO, Kris Gates, recognizes communication and training will be key to ACO implementation. ACO WebCenter 1.0 is a technology solution to the communications and training initiatives that will be a major implementation phase of the Medicare ACO and Non-Medicare ACOs.

ACO WebCenter 1.0 is split into two modules. First, the Administrative Readiness module, of which the sole purpose is for compliance with the eligibility requirements of the Medicare ACO, such as conflict of interest, shared governance, compliance, contract management and provider management. The second module focuses on physician alignment and quality measures training, such as preventative care and diabetes training as set forth in the requirements for the Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS), for physicians, providers and office staff.

In addition, Health Endeavors recognizes several phases may take place before transitioning to a Medicare ACO and has included in the Version 1.0 release specialized hybrid products to address the transitioning phases. These phases include (1) physician alignment; (2) initial PQRS training measures for physicians, providers and office staff; (3) commercial payor quality programs; and (4) Non-Medicare ACOs. Version 2.0 has already been implemented in several states, including Nebraska and Arizona. Health Endeavors has also reached out to CMS to discuss utilization of the ACO WebCenter as an audit tool to assist in the reduction of costs to CMS and participating ACOs.