Welcome to Keystone ACO
What is an ACO?
An ACO (Accountable Care Organization) is a group of doctors, hospitals and other health care providers who agree to work together to give you improved health services and care. The ACO supports your doctor by making sure they have the most up-to-date information about your health care and services. In addition, the ACO can provide your doctor increased access to the expertise, staff, and technology needed to make sure your care is coordinated across all the places you get services. This is important to help you get the right care at the right time and to keep you healthy.
How will you know if your doctor has elected to participate in an ACO?
A sign or notice will be hanging in the waiting room of your doctor or health care provider's office informing you that he or she has elected to participate in the Keystone Accountable Care Organization. The goal of the Keystone ACO is to provide you with improved coordinated care across care settings including hospital stays, doctors' offices, rehabilitative centers, and long-term care facilities.
If you still are not sure if your doctor has elected to participate in an ACO, just ask at your next primary care visit.
How will your doctor's participation in the Keystone ACO benefit you?
Your doctor's participation helps identify additional services that you may need and, if you need a transfer to a hospital or a referral to another doctor, ensures a seamless sharing of information.
For you, this care coordination helps reduce excess paperwork and unnecessary testing.
Are Medicare benefits changing because of the new Keystone ACO?
No. Your Medicare benefits and the cost of your coverage are not changing. You still have the right to choose to receive care from any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare, at any time.
What rights do you have if your doctor is participating in Keystone ACO?
You will continue to receive the same rights enjoyed by all people with 'Fee for Service' Medicare. Since your right to privacy remains very important, Medicare and the Keystone ACO have put safeguards in place to make sure all your health information is protected. Also, Medicare will not share any information about alcohol and drug treatment history, if you have received such treatment, unless you choose in writing to share it.
Can you still see your regular doctor?
Yes. You will continue to be able to see any doctor or health care provider who accepts Medicare.
How can you ask Medicare not to share your information with your doctor and Keystone ACO?
You can choose to prevent Medicare from sharing your general health information for the purpose of care coordination with your doctor and the ACO by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.
More questions about the Keystone ACO program?
If you have any questions and would like to contact the Keystone ACO, please call 570-271-6403 or e-mail keystoneaco@keystoneaco.org.
For general information on ACOs, please contact Medicare at
1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
