On July 9, 2012, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid services (CMS) announced the addition of 89 new Accountable Care Organizations (ACO) to the Medicare Shared Saving Program (MSSP). With the new ACOs, the total number of providers participating in Medicare Shared Savings initiatives is now totals 154. Since the inception of Medicare ACO program in January 2011,  there are more than 2.4 million beneficiaries receiving care from participating providers. Of the 89 new ACOs, 6 are in California, bringing the total in California to 12: Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs)

*Announced on July 9, 2012 Meanwhile, the application period for organizations that wish to take part in the MSSP beginning in January 2013 is from August 1 through September 6, 2012. For application and more information, visit CMS’ site.