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HarmonyCares Forms New Alliance to Advocate for High-Needs Care

HarmonyCares, a prominent provider specializing in in-home primary care services for individuals with complex healthcare needs, has recently joined forces with the Complex Care Alliance. This new coalition comprises ten high-needs Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) and various supportive associations. Their mission is to push for the continuation of the High Needs ACO model, which is set to expire in 2026.

designed to ensure continuity in high-quality, team-based care, the High Needs Track under ACO REACH targets a particularly vulnerable group of patients—those suffering from multiple chronic illnesses. Typically, individuals in this program manage an average of 12 chronic health conditions, with around 70% qualifying for both Medicare and Medicaid. The framework has shown remarkable success by generating substantial savings for the Medicare program while also minimizing unnecessary hospital admissions and emergency room visits.

In 2023, HarmonyCares emerged as the second-best performing participant among ACO REACH organizations, achieving an impressive annual savings of $9.1 million across approximately 700 Medicare beneficiaries. These figures translate to a notable net savings rate of 23%. Similarly, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) reported that, collectively, 14 High Needs ACOs saved around $143 million during the same year, reflecting a 13.3% net savings rate.

Matt Chance, CEO of HarmonyCares, emphasized the importance of the High Needs Track in improving care coordination for patients with diverse healthcare requirements. He stated, "We've experienced firsthand the ways in which this model can enhance care for those with complex, multifaceted needs. We are committed to working closely with the Complex Care Alliance to advocate for the program's continuation, strengthening, and expansion, ultimately ensuring that we can provide the best possible care to our most vulnerable populations."

Among the ten-member organizations participating in the Complex Care Alliance are notable contributors like Advanced Illness Partners, Bloom Healthcare, and CareConnnect MD, among others. The coalition also partners with various organizations that support its goals, including Accountable for Health (A4H), the National Association of Accountable Care Organizations (NAACOS), and America's Physician Groups (APG).

Mara McDermott, Executive Director of Accountable for Health, expressed urgency in advocating for CMS and the Innovation Center to swiftly extend access to high-needs care beyond 2026. She noted, "Our members, including HarmonyCares, have effectively demonstrated that accountable care models yield better healthcare outcomes at reduced costs for this specialized demographic. We are thrilled to be launching the Complex Care Alliance to guarantee that vulnerable Medicare beneficiaries maintain access to coordinated, high-quality care."

For additional information on the Complex Care Alliance's initiatives, visit Accountable for Health. To explore HarmonyCares' innovative in-home care model, check out their website at HarmonyCares.

About HarmonyCares

HarmonyCares is a leading national provider of home-based primary care services geared toward individuals with complex health needs. Based in Troy, Michigan, it manages home care practices across 14 states, employing over 200 primary care professionals committed to delivering patient-centered, integrated, and team-driven healthcare. For more details, visit HarmonyCares.