5 Ways ACOs Increase Revenue With At-Home Diagnostic Testing

Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) operate under various payment models, but their primary goal is to improve the quality of care while reducing healthcare costs. This includes Medicare Shared Savings Programs (MSSP) or similar initiatives with private payors, performance-based contracts with payors, value-based contracts with payors, and additional services such as care management, telemedicine, or population health management programs. For ACOs, the adoption of at-home diagnostic testing presents a multifaceted opportunity to enhance revenue streams while improving patient outcomes. 

What is at-home diagnostic testing?

At-home diagnostic testing refers to medical tests that patients can perform in the comfort of their own homes, without the need for a clinical visit or a healthcare provider's supervision. These tests are designed to provide insights into various aspects of a patient's health, such as monitoring chronic conditions, detecting diseases, or assessing overall wellness. Accountable Care Organizations can use at-home diagnostics to improve patient outcomes while controlling costs. Below are five ways ACOs can utilize at-home diagnostic testing to boost revenue. 

1. Increased Patient Engagement and Compliance

Traditional healthcare models often struggle with patient engagement and compliance, leading to gaps in care and increased healthcare costs. At-home diagnostic testing offers a patient-centric approach that promotes greater engagement by eliminating barriers such as transportation issues and time constraints associated with clinic visits. Patients are more likely to adhere to recommended testing protocols when they can conveniently perform tests in the comfort of their own homes, leading to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare utilization.

2. Proactive Disease Management

Early detection and proactive management of chronic conditions are essential for preventing complications and reducing healthcare costs associated with hospitalizations and emergency room visits. At-home diagnostic testing enables ACOs to monitor patients' health status in real-time, allowing for timely interventions and adjustments to treatment plans. By identifying issues before they escalate, ACOs can effectively manage chronic conditions and prevent costly medical emergencies.

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3. Streamlined Workflow and Resource Allocation

Integrating at-home diagnostic testing into ACO workflows streamlines the care delivery process and optimizes resource allocation. With fewer in-person visits required for routine monitoring and testing, healthcare providers can allocate their time and resources more efficiently, focusing on patients with more complex needs. This not only improves provider productivity but also reduces overhead costs associated with clinic visits, such as staffing and facility expenses.

4. Revenue Generation Through Value-Based Care Models

ACOs participating in value-based care models are incentivized to deliver high-quality, cost-effective care. At-home diagnostic testing aligns with this model by promoting preventive care, early intervention, and proactive disease management, all of which contribute to improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. As ACOs achieve better outcomes and lower costs, they can share in the cost savings generated, thereby increasing their revenue potential.

5. Expansion of Service Offerings and Market Reach

By offering at-home diagnostic testing as part of their service portfolio, ACOs can differentiate themselves in the competitive healthcare market and attract patients seeking convenient and comprehensive care solutions. Additionally, the ability to provide remote monitoring and testing expands the ACO's reach beyond traditional geographic boundaries, allowing them to serve patients in underserved or rural areas where access to healthcare services may be limited.

‍How Ash Wellness works with Accountable Care Organizations 

Ash Wellness partners with Accountable Care Organizations to help them save on costs while delivering high-quality care. We offer 150+ types of diagnostic tests, including those that screen for HbA1 levels, STIs, colorectal cancer, and lead. Our national network of CLIA/CAP certified labs, provider of record API, white-labeled kitting capabilities, and digital tools make it easy for clients to launch new programs in a matter of weeks.

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Conclusion on at-home diagnostics for Accountable Care Organizations 

In conclusion, at-home diagnostic testing presents a valuable opportunity for ACOs to enhance revenue generation while simultaneously improving patient care and operational efficiency. By leveraging technology to empower patients and transform the delivery of healthcare services, ACOs can position themselves for long-term success in an increasingly value-driven healthcare landscape.