Jefferies says CMS new LEAD model ‘clear positive’ for Astrana, Agilon, Privia

Jefferies notes that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced the launch of a new Accountable Care Organization model: the Long-term Enhanced ACO Design, or LEAD, model. Broadly, the firm views this as a “clear positive” for VBC providers participating in ACO programs like Astrana Health (ASTH), Agilon Health (AGL) and Privia Health (PRVA). The firm has Buy ratings on Astrana and Privia and a Hold rating on Agilon.