Why More Visits Save More Lives: The ACO Shift for 2026
In this episode of The Disrupted Podcast, Jamie and Scott dive into the major shift happening as the organization enters a new Accountable Care Organization (ACO) in January. The new model offers a 30% increased allotment for high-risk traditional Medicare patients — but with that opportunity comes responsibility. Scott breaks down the data that matters most: visits drive outcomes. The analytics are clear — patients who are seen more frequently cost the system less in emergency and hospital spending. Yet the current numbers show a gap: 2.5 visits per patient per month when the model requires four. Scott explains why every facilitator needs to initiate visits, how telehealth fits seamlessly into day-to-day care, and why therapists, NPs, doctors, and specialists all play interconnected roles in preventing hospitalizations. The conversation highlights efficiency, accountability, and simple, repeatable workflows that make care better — and dramatically more cost-effective. This episode is a call to action for every person who steps into a patient’s home: your visit is not just a touchpoint — it’s prevention, protection, and partnership.
The Disrupted Podcast · Jamie Preston, Scott Middleton
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Show Notes
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The new ACO model increases funding for high-risk Medicare patients but requires disciplined execution.
- Visits — frequent, short, meaningful ones — are the #1 driver of reduced hospitalizations and better outcomes.
- The target is four visits per patient per month for those with a 2.4–2.8 risk score.
- Current numbers show only 2.5 visits per patient per month — leaving savings and outcomes on the table.
- Facilitators are essential: their job is to start conversations, gather information, and initiate telehealth visits.
- Notes, Mobius recordings, and consistent communication make providers more effective over time.
- Small, weekly touchpoints outperform long, infrequent visits in both outcomes and cost savings.
- Every team member plays a role in preventing hospitalizations and improving patient stability.