May 11, 2026
LEAD Model – Apply by May 17
The LEAD (Long-Term Enhanced Design) Model is replacing the ACO REACH Model, and ACOs must submit applications by May 17 for a January 1, 2027, start. LEAD aims to attract more small, rural, and independent practices while providing additional supports for complex and dually eligible Medicare beneficiaries, including optional benefit enhancements and beneficiary engagement incentives. Specialists will also be able to participate in optional episode-based payment arrangements with ACOs and participating primary care providers.
Importantly, LEAD ACOs are not required to sign participation agreements until financial methodology details are released this summer. Participating practices can be added until August 5 and dropped until September 8.
Review the full Request for Application (RFA).
ACCESS Model – Apply by May 15
Applications for the ACCESS (Advancing Chronic Care with Effective, Scalable Solutions) Model are due May 15 for a July 5 start. Applications received after May 15 will be considered for a January 1, 2027, start.
ACCESS is a voluntary, 10-year model testing novel technologies to improve care for Medicare beneficiaries managing four chronic conditions: high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic musculoskeletal pain, and depression. Primary care practitioners and referring clinicians will qualify for a co-management payment for documented review of patient updates, which will not be subject to patient cost sharing.
Submit your ACCESS application.
MAHA ELEVATE Model – Apply by May 15
Applications for the MAHA (Make America Healthy Again) ELEVATE (Enhancing Lifestyle and Evaluating Value-based Approaches Through Evidence) Model are also due May 15. This grant-based model will provide approximately $100 million to fund three-year cooperative agreements for up to 30 proposals promoting health and prevention for Original Medicare beneficiaries.
Eligible applicants include private medical practices, ACOs, Federally Qualified Health Centers, Rural Health Clinics, academic institutions, and others. Note: Applicants must have previously submitted a letter of interest in order to apply.