image: Ochsner Accountable Care Network (OACN) Ochsner Accountable Care Network is No. 3 in the nation for care coordination, based on patient surveys
Credit: Ochsner Health
NEW ORLEANS - The Ochsner Accountable Care Network (OACN) has once again been recognized for its top performance in both healthcare quality and cost savings for Medicare patients. OACN, Louisiana’s largest Accountable Care Organization (ACO), saved $44.8 million in 2024 while improving care for nearly 60,000 patients. Since its launch in 2013, OACN has saved more than $205 million and improved patient health.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released its 2024 report on ACOs in the Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP). Ochsner ranked No. 3 out of 476 ACOs nationwide for care coordination, based on patient surveys. It also placed in the top 11% for overall quality, showing its dedication to providing excellent, well-organized care.
“By focusing on efficient and seamless care coordination and an exceptional patient experience, OACN consistently delivers outstanding care and value for both our patients and our organization," said Robert Hart, MD, Chairman of the Board for OACN. “Thank you to all of the physicians who work together to make this a success.”
What Makes Ochsner Accountable Care Network Stand Out?
Ochsner’s success comes from its focus on teamwork, efficiency, and patient satisfaction. Doctors, nurses, and care teams work together to make sure patients get the right care at the right time. This approach has led to better health outcomes and lower costs.
Key achievements in 2024 include:
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No. 3 in the nation for care coordination, based on patient surveys.
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Top 5% for courteous and helpful office staff, based on patient surveys.
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Top 10% for patients’ ratings of their providers.
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Top 2% for colorectal cancer screenings.
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94% of patients received breast cancer screenings (14% better than average).
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Less than 6% of patients had uncontrolled diabetes (36% better than average).
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99% of patients were screened for fall risks (top 4% nationally).
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Among the top 9% for depression screening and follow-up care.
OACN also reduced emergency room visits by 3% compared to 2023, showing its focus on preventive care and managing chronic conditions.
What Are ACOs?
ACOs are groups of doctors, hospitals, and healthcare providers who work together to give patients better, more coordinated care. This teamwork helps reduce unnecessary tests and paperwork while improving communication between patients and their healthcare teams.
“Despite rising expenses, Ochsner’s top ranking results contributed to a collective $2.4 billion in Medicare ACO savings nationwide this year,” said Sidney “Beau” Raymond, MD, OACN Medical Director and Executive Director. “Our doctors and care teams continue to enhance quality and patient satisfaction while lowering costs.”
For more information about Ochsner Accountable Care Network and its achievements, visit www.OchsnerHealthNetwork.org.
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About Ochsner Accountable Care Network (OACN)
OACN is an Accountable Care Organization (ACO) comprised of more than 2,500 clinicians in Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi and Alabama. Founded in 2013 to ensure that patients, especially those with chronic conditions, get the right care, at the right time, in the right place, the network is dedicated to improving health outcomes and supports population health efforts across the Gulf South. OACN consists of Ochsner Health-employed and community providers and is the largest ACO in Louisiana.
About Ochsner Health
Ochsner Health is the leading nonprofit healthcare provider in the Gulf South, delivering expert care at its 47 hospitals and more than 370 health and urgent care centers. For 14 consecutive years, U.S. News & World Report has recognized Ochsner as the No. 1 hospital in Louisiana. Additionally, Ochsner Children’s has been recognized as the No. 1 hospital for kids in Louisiana for five consecutive years. Ochsner inspires healthier lives and stronger communities through a combination of standard-setting expertise, quality and connection not found anywhere else in the region. In 2024, Ochsner Health cared for more than 1.6 million people from every state in the nation and 63 countries. Ochsner’s workforce includes more than 40,000 dedicated team members and over 4,900 employed and affiliated physicians. To learn more about how Ochsner empowers people to get well and stay well, visit https://www.ochsner.org/.