Blue Cross, N.J. provider launch ACO

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and Optimus Healthcare Partners has launched an accountable care organization (ACO) that will include 42 primary care practices and 104 primary care physicians that treat more than 40,000 patients in 11 counties.

Under the arrangement, Optimus PCPs will receive incentive payments for taking on the accountability for improving the health outcomes and satisfaction levels of patients covered by Horizon.

“Optimus’ physicians have embraced the need for care transformation, accountability and the development of clinically integrated high-performing physician networks,” said Tom Kloos, MD, president and CEO of the Bridgeport, Conn.-based healthcare system.