Vermont Business Magazine The State of Vermont formally notified Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of its decision to withdraw from the Achieving Healthcare Efficiency through Accountable Design (AHEAD) Model. Vermont originally pursued the model when it was launched in 2023 as an opportunity to strengthen the state's health care systems. However, new policy and operational guidance to bring Vermont in alignment with other AHEAD states substantially reduced anticipated funding to reinvest in some providers like primary care practices.
"This decision wasn’t made lightly,” said Secretary Jenney Samuelson. “I also want to be clear: this decision will not increase costs for Vermonters or reduce access to services. We remain committed to healthcare transformation and initiatives, including the once in a lifetime Rural Health Transformation Program, that will deliver great benefit to Vermonters across the state.”
The AHEAD Model provided Vermont with the ability to invest Medicare savings from the Vermont All-Payer Accountable Care Organization Model in the state's overall health care systems to achieve better outcomes for Vermonters. With this change, Vermonters will not be adversely impacted.
“Vermont has a long history of working collaboratively with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on health care reform,” said Medicaid and Health Systems Director Jill Mazza Olson. “We remain optimistic about future opportunities to partner with the federal government on innovative models and look forward to continuing our strong relationship."
About the Vermont Agency of Human Services
AHS’s mission is to improve the conditions and well-being of people in Vermont. The mission is a commitment to fostering positive change in the lives of Vermonters. It underscores our dedication to creating an environment where individuals not only survive but thrive.
7.24.2026. Waterbury, Vt. - AHS https://humanservices.vermont.gov.
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Vermont Business Magazine