Next Generation ACO Model (NGACO) Public Use Files

The Next Generation ACO Model is an initiative for ACOs that are experienced in coordinating care for populations of patients. The goal of the Model is to test whether strong financial incentives for ACOs, coupled with tools to support better patient engagement and care management, can improve health outcomes and lower expenditures for Original Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) beneficiaries.

The NGACO Model began January 1, 2016 and ends December 31, 2021.

The Public Use Files (PUFs) includes summary data on the characteristics of the population attributed to an ACO and the providers affiliated with an NGACO without disclosing sensitive identifiers.  It also provides summary data on financial performance including the baseline and benchmark expenditure of each NGACO and the shared savings (or loss). These files do not contain Personally Identifiable Information (PII) or Protected Health Information (PHI) in order to protect beneficiary confidentiality. Data dictionaries are provided.

For more information, please visit the NGACO Model website at https://innovation.cms.gov/innovation-models/next-generation-aco-model.

Questions regarding the Next Generation ACO Model can be directed to NextGenerationACOModel@cms.hhs.gov.