Magellan Health announced that Accountable Cardiac Care of Mississippi (ACCOM), a venture between Magellan Health and Cardiology Associates of North Mississippi (CANM), has formed a collaboration to enhance cardiovascular health with an innovative care model driven by clinical best practices for Blue Cross & Blue Shield members in northeast Mississippi. ACCOM was formed to contract with health plans, existing accountable care organizations, and other risk-bearing healthcare entities for the purpose of improving patient care, cost, and quality in Mississippi.
According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, is the leading cause of death in Mississippi, accounting for over one-third of all deaths in the state. In addition, Mississippi’s cardiovascular disease mortality rate remains the highest in the nation.
“As we continue to implement innovative ways to care for those who need it most, we are excited to deliver quality data and analytics, as well as access to national clinical experts, expertise in optimizing outcomes through evidence-based care, as well as care integration tools,” said Gus Giraldo, president of commercial markets for Magellan Health. “Through this collaboration with Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi, we will be able to help providers proactively manage the care of their patients to help improve quality while reducing cost.”
“We felt it was important to form ACCOM as we continue to look at ways to improve the cost, quality, outcomes and patient experience for our cardiac patients, especially those at high risk,” said Dr. Roger A. Williams, president of Cardiology Associates of North Mississippi.
“We are committed to improving the health of all Mississippians, especially those who are faced with cardiovascular disease,” said Dr. Tom Fenter, chief medical officer at Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi. “This innovative care model is an ideal complement to our Blue Primary Care approach to providing patient-centered care designed to engage individuals in managing their risk factors, preventing complications and improving overall quality of life. We are positively impacting the health and wellbeing of our community one person at a time.”
