An Accountable Care Organization (ACO) is a new health care delivery model that brings together the various aspects of health care, including primary care physicians (PCPs), hospitals and home health care, to manage costs and improve outcomes. These networks of doctors and hospitals work together to enhance the overall health and wellness of a patient population.

Health systems across the country are establishing ACOs in order to:

  • Better coordinate the continuum of care across multiple providers
  • Optimize treatment of chronic conditions
  • Focus attention on wellness and prevention

University Hospitals Accountable Care Organization

University Hospitals is at the forefront of the ACO movement, having established the University Hospitals Accountable Care Organization (UHACO) on January 1, 2011. The initial rollout of the UHACO is focused on improving the health and wellness of employees and dependents enrolled in a UH medical plan. The program is focused on:

  • Increasing the role of the PCP
  • Expanding care coordination and disease management processes
  • Promoting wellness and prevention
  • Providing resources for patients to manage their own health
  • Tracking and measuring key clinical pathways

The UHACO Provider and Facility Network combines our industry-leading facilities and providers with a large population of independent providers to give members and covered dependents a significant amount of health care options. A key component of the UHACO network is a commitment to:

  • Utilizing defined quality programs
  • Improving patient safety through information technology
  • Tracking health improvement metrics
  • Partnering with patients to determine appropriate care

UHACO Members

Coordinated care starts with the most important health care relationship – a primary care physician. UHACO members are strongly encouraged to select a PCP for all dependents covered under a UH medical plan. The PCP will partner with members and dependents to coordinate:

  • Preventive care
  • Routine health concerns
  • Specialist referrals
  • Medical history

For additional information and opportunities to improve health and wellness, visit UHWellness.