So, you want to form a healthcare network - now what?

Healthcare networks are rapidly developing owing to the rising costs of maintaining independent practice while complying with changing rules and regulations. As groups are looking to create a network, a thorough evaluation completed in preparation for participation will assure their new venture greater success. The experiences of current networks, including those associated with accountable care organisations (ACOs), provide a road map for others. Keystone ACO, LLC has more than eight years of network experience in value-based contracting within the Medicare Shared Savings Program. (Keystone Accountable Care Organization, LLC is a Medicare Shared Savings ACO currently participating in the Basic Track E risk track. Information on Keystone ACO can be found at Keystoneaco.org.) This paper presents experiences of management consideration and staffing structures within Keystone ACO. Observations that are both positive and negative, coupled with policy and regulatory statutes, can assist new networks in selecting participants, evaluating opportunities and providing the staffing resources to create a successful healthcare network. The content of this paper provides examples and thought processes behind building a successful network.