CMS updates AHEAD model: 6 things to know

CMS updates AHEAD model: 6 things to know 
Becker's Hospital Review; by Alan Condon; 9/2/25 
CMS on Sept. 2 unveiled policy and operational updates to the Achieving Healthcare Efficiency through Accountable Design Model, a state total cost of care initiative launched in 2023 to curb spending, improve population health and advance health equity. Six things to know: 

1. The AHEAD Model will now conclude on Dec. 31, 2035. ...
2. Changes will begin across all cohorts in January 2026. ...
3. For the first time, AHEAD will bring total cost of care accountability to all Original Medicare beneficiaries in participating regions, including those not aligned with other accountable care models. ...
4. States must now implement at least two policies to promote choice and competition in healthcare markets. ...
5. Current participants include ...
6. States may receive up to $12 million over the first five to six years to support implementation activities. ...