Legal mechanisms supporting accountable care principles.

Public health and private providers and facilities may shape the future of the US health system by engaging in new ways to deliver care to patients. "Accountable care" contracts allow private health care and public health providers and facilities to collaboratively serve defined populations. Accountable care frameworks emphasize health care quality and cost savings, among other goals. In this article, I explore the legal context for accountable care, including the mechanisms by which providers, facilities, and public health coordinate activities, avoid inefficiencies, and improve health outcomes. I highlight ongoing evaluations of the impact of accountable care on public health outcomes.