Accreditation Programs Launched for Integrated Care, ACOs

URAC (formerly the Utilization Review Accreditation Commission) is launching two new accreditation programs for physician groups and health systems moving toward clinical integration and accountable care. The programs are designed to assist provider organizations as they move from physician practice groups to fully functioning “medical homes,” from loosely organized networks to clinically integrated networks, and from clinically integrated networks to population-based health care delivery through accountable care entities.

“URAC’s new accreditation programs are a roadmap for providers to successfully navigate the complex structural and cultural changes required under the Affordable Care Act to succeed in a new environment focused on quality and accountability,” said Kylanne Green, president and CEO of URAC, in a statement. “Accreditation provides a competitive advantage for health care organizations by distinguishing themselves in the market while meeting industry needs at a crucial time of change.”

The first program, Clinical Integration Accreditation, offers education and guidance for health care providers to achieve interdependent operations, care coordination, clinical management, and improved performance measures. The program focuses on the development of the organizational structure needed for clinical integration and applying evidence-based guidelines and best practices.

The second program, Accountable Care Accreditation, supports an advanced level of operations with a focus on total population health and improving health outcomes through care coordination of population groups. The program helps providers address patient centeredness and engagement, health information technology, quality management, population-based risk management, and case management.

To earn the accreditation, providers are independently evaluated, ensuring the achievement of accountability and quality under industry-vetted standards. URAC’s clinical integration standards also align with Federal Trade Commission antitrust regulations. More information is available at http://www.urac.org or (202) 216-9010. ■