CMS Extends AHEAD Model Through 2035 With New Requirements For States

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Innovation Center announced that it has taken steps to help states achieve total cost of care (TCOC) targets while advancing its commitment to promoting choice and competition, increasing prevention, empowering consumers, and protecting taxpayer dollars through the Achieving Healthcare Efficiency through Accountable Design (AHEAD) Model.

New policy changes, operational changes, and a new end date will be implemented beginning in January 2026. The changes will affect all cohorts. The new end date for all cohorts is now December 31, 2035.

The changes are intended to advance two CMS strategic pillars. The first . . .