Understanding ACO Experience for Patients and Caregivers

This research report investigates the experiences of patients, family caregivers, and health care team members within the framework of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). The study aims to inform and engage stakeholders, including the patient advocacy community and policymakers, about the ACO model's potential to enhance care experiences, outcomes, and efficiency. Conducted by the American Heart Association, the research involved an expert panel and key informant interviews with medically complex patients and caregivers, as well as health care team members. The findings indicate that care provided through ACOs is perceived as superior to traditional fee-for-service models, with themes such as respectful and responsive care, effective communication, and coordinated care emerging from participant narratives. The report also discusses the challenges faced during recruitment and the limitations of the study, including the lack of a comparison group. Overall, the research underscores the importance of understanding patient and caregiver experiences in shaping future health care delivery models.