CMS has launched the “Initiative to Reduce Avoidable Hospitalizations among Nursing Facility Residents,” through which the agency will partner with independent organizations to improve care for long-stay nursing facility residents enrolled in Medicare and Medicaid. CMS will support organizations (called “enhanced care & coordination providers”) that work with nursing facilities to implement evidence-based interventions to improve the quality and costs of care. Participating enhanced care & coordination providers must: hire staff who maintain a physical presence at nursing facilities and partner with facility staff to implement preventive services; work in cooperation with existing providers; facilitate residents’ transitions to and from inpatient hospitals and nursing facilities; provide support for improved communication and coordination among existing providers; and coordinate management and monitoring of prescription drugs. Eligible organizations can include physician practices, care management organizations, and other public and not-for-profit entities. The initiative is expected to last from August 2012 to August 2016. Interested organizations must submit a notice of intent to apply by April 30, 2012, and proposals are due June 14, 2012.