What defines an "accountable care organization" (ACO)?

An accountable care organization (ACO) is best defined as a group of healthcare providers that work collaboratively to improve the quality of care while simultaneously reducing costs for the patient population they serve. The goal of an ACO is to deliver coordinated care that ensures patients receive the right services at the right time, preventing unnecessary duplication of services and avoiding medical errors.

This collaborative approach involves various healthcare providers, such as physicians, hospitals, and other health professionals, who share responsibility for the care of a designated population. By aligning incentives, ACOs can focus on effective communication, preventative care, and overall health management, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of what an ACO is. While independent healthcare providers and insurance policies play important roles in healthcare delivery, they do not encompass the ACO's primary objective of coordinated high-quality care and cost management. Additionally, a non-profit organization focused on health research does not involve the direct provision of care or the coordination among providers aimed at improving patient outcomes, which is central to the ACO model.