Aetna, Cigna launch more ACOs in Texas

Texas has been the focus of accountable care organizations for both Aetna and Cigna as the insurers roll out new cost-saving collaborative programs in the state.

Aetna recently entered into an ACO with Arlington-based Texas Health Resources that aims to improve quality care while lowering costs. Aetna will provide financial rewards when Texas Health doctors meet such measures as increasing preventive care and screenings, reducing avoidable hospital readmissions and decreasing emergency room visits, the Dallas Business Journal reported.

The ACO ultimately should allow Texas Health, which just announced a similar ACO agreement with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, to create a plan to care for patients when they're sick and also help keep their patients healthy.

Meanwhile, Cigna launched the latest program within its collaborative accountable care initiative with Plano, Texas-based Village Health Partners, marking its sixth ACO in the state.

Under the agreement, clinical care coordinators will help prevent gaps in care for VHP patients with chronic conditions by, for example, scheduling appointments and providing any necessary health education. Cigna also offers financial bonuses to VHP if it meets certain targets for improving quality and cutting medical costs, reported D Healthcare Daily.

To learn more:
- see the Dallas Business Journal article
- read the D Healthcare Daily article

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