April 13, 2026
The LEAD (Long-term Enhanced ACO Design) Model Request for Applications is now available. Accountable care organizations (ACOs) interested in participating have until May 17, 2026, to apply. LEAD builds upon the Innovation Center’s earlier accountable care work and utilizes an innovative benchmarking approach to appeal to a broader mix of health-care providers. It also provides support and flexibility to better integrate care for high-need beneficiaries, including those who are homebound or home-limited and those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.
Through LEAD ACOs, health-care providers will be empowered to deliver coordinated, accountable care and preventive services—keeping patients healthier and helping to reduce health-care costs and unnecessary emergency room visits and hospitalizations.