The financial implications of ACOs for providers.

: To prepare for a future in which more and more patients will receive care in ambulatory settings, and acute care service capacity will likely need to be considerably downsized, hospitals should pursue five near-term strategies: Convert primary care practices to medical homes, Develop the IT capabilities required to manage and report on clinical and financial processes and outcomes, Integrate the clinical and financial interests with those of their physicians in improving value, Reduce cost per episode of care through bundled payment initiatives, Nurture key relationships with other providers.