Under MACRA, Alternative Payment Models (APMs) are primarily designed for clinicians who participate in what type of arrangements?

• A. Under MACRA, Alternative Payment Models (APMs) are primarily designed for clinicians participating in eligible risk-bearing arrangements.
• B. APMs are designed for all clinicians regardless of risk.
• C. APMs apply only to hospital administrators.
• D. APMs require exclusive capitation with no risk sharing.

Answer: (A)

APMs under MACRA are designed to move clinicians into payment models that carry financial risk and accountability for cost and quality. This means participation in arrangements where clinicians share in savings if they meet quality and cost targets, but also shoulder losses if costs exceed benchmarks. That risk-bearing component is what defines an eligible APM and qualifies clinicians for MACRA incentives.

So the best choice correctly identifies that APMs target clinicians who participate in eligible risk-bearing arrangements. While capitation can be part of some models, the essential idea is taking on financial risk and sharing in outcomes, not exclusive, risk-free payments. The other options don’t fit because APMs aren’t for all clinicians regardless of risk, aren’t limited to hospital administrators, and aren’t defined as requiring exclusive capitation with no risk sharing.