Relates to including accountable care organizations within the definition of a managed care provider

This bill amends New York's social services law to include accountable care organizations (ACOs) under the legal definition of "managed care provider." It directly affects ACOs established under Article 29-E of the Public Health Law, allowing them to operate under the same regulatory framework as traditional managed care plans for Medicaid programs. The key change adds specific language to the law stating that ACOs qualify as managed care providers, streamlining their eligibility for Medicaid contracts. The Health Commissioner must implement these changes through regulations, effective immediately upon the bill's enactment.