CMS “TEAM”: Coordinating the Journey Together

When you strip away the technical terms, the heart of the CMS (Transforming Episode Accountability Model) TEAM is about people–patients, providers, and care teams moving in sync. For the acute-care hospitals preparing for the launch of the TEAM initiative, clear and intentional internal communication isn’t just helpful; it’s essential.

Transitioning a patient from surgery through hospitalization and the 30 days that follow is inherently complex. Every link in the chain: surgeons, inpatient teams, discharge planners, post-acute providers, and primary care clinicians need to know their role, understand handoffs, and speak the same language. When teams communicate well, the patient experience becomes smoother, safer, and more connected.

For more than 16 years, Forethought has been supporting Value-Based Care and Population Health initiatives with intentional, highly coordinated communication strategies. We’ve seen firsthand how thoughtful planning can transform complex models into operational successes. With the CMS TEAM launching January 1, 2026, hospitals selected to participate in this mandatory five-year program can benefit greatly from clear, efficient, and aligned internal messaging.

If your healthcare system has been mandated to participate in CMS TEAM, you may be feeling the pressure of coordinating complex care pathways, aligning multiple groups, and ensuring every staff member understands their role in a high-stakes patient episode. Effective communication can transform that pressure into clarity, confidence, and seamless execution. Forethought is ready to assist your organization in achieving exactly that – so your clinicians can focus on delivering coordinated, patient-centered care from surgery through recovery.

Visit cmsteamtalk.com for guidance designed to help hospitals navigate CMS TEAM communication with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re just beginning preparations or refining your internal strategy, Forethought is able to get you aligned.