Timeline & Key Dates
The ACCESS Model runs for 10 years from July 5, 2026 through June 30, 2036. Here are the critical dates and milestones you need to know.
ACCESS Is Live — Applications Remain Open
The ACCESS Model launched on July 5, 2026 with more than 160 participating organizations. CMS accepts applications on a rolling basis at the ACCESS Participant Portal. Apply by October 1, 2026 for the January 1, 2027 cohort.
New Tracks Start April 1, 2027
On September 15, 2026, CMS announced new tracks for heart failure, COPD, substance use disorder, and tobacco cessation, plus a new follow-on period for chronic musculoskeletal pain. Current participants and applicants do not need to reapply. Read the CMS announcement.
Pre-Launch Phase (2025-2026)
December 19, 2025
Model Announcement
CMS officially announced the ACCESS Model and released the Request for Applications (RFA).
January 2026
Application Portal Now Open
The ACCESS Participant Portal is now live. Organizations can submit applications at https://app.innovation.cms.gov/ACCESS/IDMLogin
April 1, 2026 (11:59 PM PDT)
Application Deadline (First Cohort)
Final deadline for applications to be considered for the July 5, 2026 start date.
May-June 2026
Application Review Period
CMS reviews applications and notifies accepted organizations.
Model Launch & Early Operations (2026-2027)
July 5, 2026
Model Launch - First Performance Period Begins
ACCESS Model officially began with more than 160 participating organizations. First cohort organizations can enroll patients.
September 15, 2026
New Tracks Announced
CMS announced tracks for heart failure, COPD, substance use disorder, and tobacco cessation, plus a follow-on period for chronic MSK pain. All start April 1, 2027.
October 1, 2026
Application Deadline (Second Cohort)
Applications received by this date are considered for the January 1, 2027 start.
January 1, 2027
Second Cohort Start Date
Organizations that applied after April 1, 2026 but before October 1, 2026 can begin participation. Subsequent cohorts begin quarterly through July 1, 2033.
April 1, 2027
New Tracks Begin
Heart failure, COPD, substance use disorder, tobacco cessation, and the chronic MSK pain follow-on period become available. Current participants and applicants do not need to reapply.
July 2027
First Annual Performance Assessment
Initial outcome data collected and analyzed for Year 1 participants.
Ongoing Operations (2027-2036)
The ACCESS Model operates on an annual cycle with continuous enrollment opportunities:
| Period | Activity |
|---|---|
| Through April 2033 | Rolling application acceptance |
| Quarterly | New cohort start dates (through July 1, 2033) |
| Quarterly | Performance monitoring and reporting |
| Annually | Outcome assessment and payment reconciliation |
| Annually | Public reporting of risk-adjusted outcomes |
Cohort Schedule
| Application Deadline | Cohort Start Date |
|---|---|
| April 1, 2026 (closed) | July 5, 2026 (launched) |
| October 1, 2026 | January 1, 2027 |
| Rolling quarterly | Quarterly through July 1, 2033 |
Note: Applications received by October 1, 2026 will be considered for participation beginning January 1, 2027. The five new tracks announced in September 2026 start April 1, 2027 for all participants.
Progressive Performance Thresholds
Minimum performance thresholds increase each participation year. Organizations should plan for continuous quality improvement throughout their participation.
Model Conclusion (2036)
June 30, 2036
Model End Date
Scheduled conclusion of the 10-year ACCESS Model testing period. CMS will evaluate results to inform future Medicare policy.
Application Timeline Details
First Cohort (July 2026) — Completed
The first cohort followed these steps. Later cohorts follow the same pattern with adjusted dates.
Submit Application (By April 1, 2026)
Complete and submit your application through the CMS Innovation Center portal, including all required documentation and attestations.
Application Review (April-May 2026)
CMS reviews applications for completeness, eligibility, and capability to deliver technology-supported care.
Notification (May-June 2026)
Accepted organizations receive notification and begin onboarding process.
Onboarding & Training (June 2026)
Complete required training, system integration, and operational preparation.
Begin Operations (July 5, 2026)
Start enrolling patients and delivering technology-supported care under the ACCESS Model.
For January 2027 Start
Organizations that apply by October 1, 2026 follow a similar process with adjusted timelines for a January 1, 2027 start date.
For Later Cohorts
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through April 1, 2033. Subsequent cohorts will begin quarterly through July 1, 2033.
Important Considerations
Medicare Part B Enrollment
Enrollment Requirement
Organizations must be enrolled in Medicare Part B to participate in ACCESS. If your organization is not currently enrolled, you should begin the enrollment process immediately, as it can take several months to complete.
Rolling Applications
After the initial cohorts, CMS will review applications on a rolling basis. This means:
- New organizations can apply at any time
- Approval timing depends on application completeness and CMS review capacity
- Start dates will be aligned with model operational cycles
Annual Participation Cycles
Each participation year runs for 12 months. Key activities within each year include:
| Month | Activity |
|---|---|
| Month 1 | Performance period begins, patient enrollment active |
| Months 1-12 | Ongoing care delivery, monitoring, and reporting |
| Month 12 | Performance period ends, outcome assessment begins |
| Month 13+ | Payment reconciliation, continuation period decisions |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still apply now that the model has launched?▼
Yes. CMS accepts applications on a rolling basis through April 1, 2033. Applications received by October 1, 2026 will be considered for a January 1, 2027 start date. Later cohorts begin quarterly through July 1, 2033.
Do current participants need to reapply for the new tracks that start April 1, 2027?▼
No. CMS states that current participants and applicants will not need to reapply to participate in the heart failure, COPD, substance use disorder, tobacco cessation, or chronic MSK pain follow-on tracks. Complete the ACCESS Model Interest Form to receive updates.
How long does the application review process take?▼
For the first cohort, expect approximately 2-3 months between the application deadline and notification. Rolling applications may have variable review timelines.
Can an organization join mid-year?▼
After the initial cohorts, CMS will establish regular onboarding cycles. Contact ACCESSModelTeam@cms.hhs.gov for current timing and opportunities.
What happens at the end of the 10-year model period?▼
CMS will evaluate the ACCESS Model's results to determine its impact on patient outcomes, costs, and care quality. Successful elements may be incorporated into permanent Medicare policy.
Stay Informed
CMS will provide updates and guidance throughout the model period. To stay informed:
- Subscribe to updates: Join the ACCESS Model listserv for deadline and model development updates
- Check CMS website: Regular updates posted to the ACCESS Model page
- Contact CMS: ACCESSModelTeam@cms.hhs.gov
Next Steps
Check Your Eligibility
Review requirements to participate in the ACCESS Model
Start Your Application
Step-by-step guide to the application process
Apply Now — Portal Open
Submit your application through the ACCESS Participant Portal