Direct Contracting: A program summary and comparison with MSSP and NGACO

This paper provides an in-depth technical evaluation of Direct Contracting, based on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services request for applications, along with comparisons to its sister programs—Medicare Shared Savings Program Accountable Care Organization (ACO) and Next Generation ACO. It draws out distinctions that organizations may want to weigh when considering participation in this or other programs.