CMS has announced its newest innovative delivery reform program, called the “Transforming Clinical Practice Initiative,” which will provide up to $840 million over four years to help clinicians share, adapt, and develop quality improvement strategies. CMS intends to make awards for the following two types of systems:

• Practice Transformation Networks are peer-based learning networks designed to help clinicians develop core competencies specific to practice transformation. CMS is seeking applicants that have pre-existing relationships with multiple clinician practices that include data sharing capabilities (e.g., health systems; regional extension centers; quality improvement organizations; large group practices; regional/state-based health collaboratives; and hospital systems).
• Support and Alignment Networks will promote workforce development through organizations that use tools such as continuing medical education, maintenance of certification, and core competency development to help ensure sustainability of these efforts. Applicants could include medical professional associations, specialty societies, and organizations that generate evidence-based clinical practice guidelines, support efforts to reduce unnecessary testing and procedures, and effectively incorporate safety and patient/family engagement.

Applicants are encouraged to submit a letter of intent by November 20, 2014, and applications are due by January 6, 2015. CMS anticipates announcing awards in spring/summer 2015.