Application Process
This guide walks you through the complete ACCESS Model application process, from initial preparation through approval and onboarding.
Key Deadline
To be considered for the first performance period beginning July 5, 2026, applications must be submitted by April 1, 2026. Applications received after this date will be considered for a January 1, 2027 start.
Application Overview
Applications are submitted through the CMS Innovation Center portal and reviewed on a rolling basis. CMS evaluates applications for completeness, eligibility, and organizational capability to deliver technology-supported care.
Before You Apply
1. Verify Eligibility
Before starting your application, ensure your organization meets all eligibility requirements:
- ✓ Medicare Part B enrolled (or enrollment in process)
- ✓ Designated Medicare-enrolled physician Clinical Director
- ✓ Clinical capabilities for your target tracks
- ✓ FDA, HIPAA, and state compliance
- ✓ Required technology infrastructure
Review Full Eligibility Requirements
Detailed eligibility criteria and preparation checklist
2. Submit Interest Form
If you haven't already, submit the ACCESS Model Interest Form to:
- Receive application updates and announcements
- Get notified when the application portal opens
- Access webinars and informational sessions
- Connect with the ACCESS Model team
Submit ACCESS Interest Form
Express your interest and join the mailing list
3. Gather Required Information
Prepare the following information before starting your application:
| Category | Required Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Legal name, address, NPI, Tax ID, Medicare enrollment number |
| Clinical Director | Name, NPI, Medicare enrollment status, credentials |
| Contacts | Primary contact, authorized representative, clinical lead |
| Clinical Tracks | Which tracks you're applying for, patient volume estimates |
| Capabilities | Technology platform details, clinical services offered |
| Compliance | FDA authorizations, HIPAA attestation, state licenses |
Application Steps
Create Account & Access Portal
Create an account on the CMS Innovation Center application portal. You'll receive login credentials to access the ACCESS Model application.
What you'll need:
- Organization email address
- Authorized representative information
- Organization identifiers (NPI, Tax ID)
Complete Organization Profile
Enter your organization's basic information, including:
- Legal business name and DBA (if applicable)
- Business address and contact information
- Medicare Part B enrollment status and PTAN
- Organization type and structure
- Ownership and control information
Designate Clinical Director
Provide information about your designated Clinical Director:
- Physician name and credentials
- NPI and Medicare enrollment number
- Current practice information
- Role and responsibilities attestation
- Signed acknowledgment of Clinical Director duties
Select Clinical Tracks
Indicate which clinical track(s) you're applying for:
- eCKM — Early Cardio-Kidney-Metabolic
- CKM — Cardio-Kidney-Metabolic
- MSK — Musculoskeletal
- BH — Behavioral Health
For each track, you'll need to describe:
- Relevant clinical expertise and experience
- Estimated patient capacity
- Care delivery approach
- Outcome measurement capabilities
Describe Care Model
Provide details about how you'll deliver technology-supported care:
- Technology platform and tools used
- Care delivery methods (virtual, in-person, asynchronous)
- Patient engagement approach
- Care team composition
- Coordination with PCPs and other providers
Demonstrate Compliance
Attest to and provide documentation for:
- FDA compliance for devices and software
- HIPAA privacy and security safeguards
- State licensure requirements
- Quality assurance processes
- Patient safety protocols
Submit Attestations
Complete required attestations, including:
- Accuracy of application information
- Commitment to ACCESS Model requirements
- Agreement to CMS terms and conditions
- Data sharing and reporting obligations
- Authorized representative signature
Review & Submit
Before final submission:
- Review all sections for completeness
- Verify accuracy of all information
- Ensure all required documents are attached
- Obtain authorized representative approval
- Submit application through the portal
Required Documents
Prepare these documents for upload with your application:
Organizational Documents
- Medicare Part B enrollment confirmation
- Organization legal documentation (articles of incorporation, etc.)
- Ownership and control disclosure
Clinical Documentation
- Clinical Director credentials and attestation
- Clinical protocols for target tracks
- Quality assurance procedures
Compliance Documentation
- FDA authorizations/clearances for medical devices
- HIPAA compliance attestation
- State licensure documentation
- Malpractice insurance verification
Technology Documentation
- Technology platform description
- Data security documentation
- Integration capabilities (for CMS APIs)
Document Formats
Most documents should be uploaded as PDF files. The application portal will specify accepted formats and file size limits for each document type.
After You Apply
Application Review
CMS reviews applications on a rolling basis, evaluating:
- Completeness — All required information and documents provided
- Eligibility — Organization meets participation requirements
- Capability — Demonstrated ability to deliver technology-supported care
- Compliance — Evidence of regulatory compliance
Review Timeline
| Application Submitted | Expected Decision | Potential Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| By April 1, 2026 | May-June 2026 | July 5, 2026 |
| After April 1, 2026 | Rolling (8-12 weeks) | January 1, 2027+ |
Possible Outcomes
Approved
Your organization is accepted into the ACCESS Model. You'll receive onboarding instructions and begin preparation for your start date.
Approved with Conditions
Your organization is provisionally accepted, pending completion of specific requirements or corrections. You'll receive detailed instructions on what's needed.
Request for Additional Information
CMS needs more information to complete the review. You'll have an opportunity to provide additional documentation or clarification.
Not Approved
Your application was not accepted. You'll receive feedback on the reason and may be able to reapply after addressing deficiencies.
Onboarding Process
Approved organizations complete onboarding before their start date:
Pre-Launch Activities
Sign Participation Agreement
Execute the official ACCESS Model Participation Agreement with CMS, outlining all terms, conditions, and obligations.
Complete Required Training
Participate in mandatory training covering:
- ACCESS Model operations and requirements
- CMS reporting systems and APIs
- Outcome measurement and documentation
- Compliance and quality requirements
Technical Integration
Complete integration with CMS systems:
- API connectivity testing
- Eligibility verification setup
- Enrollment system integration
- Reporting system configuration
Operational Readiness
Finalize internal preparation:
- Staff training completion
- Patient enrollment workflows
- Care delivery protocols
- Quality monitoring systems
Begin Operations
On your start date, you can begin enrolling patients and delivering ACCESS Model care.
Tips for a Strong Application
Do
- ✓ Start early — Don't wait until the deadline
- ✓ Be specific — Provide detailed, concrete information
- ✓ Demonstrate experience — Highlight relevant clinical expertise
- ✓ Show technology capability — Describe your platform in detail
- ✓ Address all tracks — Thoroughly complete each track you're applying for
- ✓ Proofread carefully — Ensure accuracy and completeness
Don't
- ✗ Leave sections incomplete
- ✗ Provide vague or generic responses
- ✗ Apply for tracks you're not prepared to serve
- ✗ Overstate capabilities or experience
- ✗ Submit without reviewing thoroughly
- ✗ Miss the deadline for your desired start date
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I save my application and return later?▼
Yes, the application portal allows you to save your progress and return to complete your application later. Your information will be saved as a draft until you submit.
Can I modify my application after submission?▼
After submission, you cannot directly modify your application. However, if CMS requests additional information during review, you'll have an opportunity to provide updates or corrections.
How will I be notified of the decision?▼
CMS will notify you via email to the primary contact listed in your application. You'll also be able to check status through the application portal.
What if I'm not approved?▼
If your application is not approved, you'll receive feedback on the reasons. You may be able to reapply after addressing the identified issues. Contact ACCESSModelTeam@cms.hhs.gov for guidance.
Can I apply for additional tracks after initial approval?▼
Yes, approved organizations can apply to add additional clinical tracks after their initial approval, subject to CMS review and approval of expanded capabilities.
Is there an application fee?▼
No, there is no fee to apply for the ACCESS Model.
Can multiple organizations apply together?▼
Each organization must submit its own application. However, you can describe partnership arrangements in your application. The applying organization remains responsible for all ACCESS Model requirements.
Get Help
Questions About the Application
Email: ACCESSModelTeam@cms.hhs.gov
The ACCESS Model team can answer questions about:
- Application requirements and process
- Eligibility questions
- Technical assistance with the portal
- Documentation requirements
Technical Support
For issues with the CMS Innovation Center application portal:
- Use the help function within the portal
- Contact CMS technical support through the portal
Next Steps
Review Eligibility Requirements
Ensure your organization meets all requirements before applying
FDA Requirements Guide
Understand FDA compliance for technology-supported care
Download Request for Applications
Official CMS document with complete application details