The end of the CJR model: A look back at its evolution  In October 2024, the final episodes of the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) model were initiated, with all episodes ending by Dec. 31, 2024. This was the final performance year of CJR, which spanned eight years overall.   CJR began Apr. 1, 2016. It was CMS’ first mandatory bundled payment model. Hospitals were held financially accountable for lower extremity joint replacement (LEJR) episodes of care and were incentivized to improve care coordination for patients across the continuum.    Key insights from CJR: Successes, adjustments and challenges  CJR had numerous ups and downs over the years, as its scope was adjusted over several administrations through the rule-making process. Here are the five main highlights.  1. CJR’s mandatory participation: A changing landscape  When the CJR model was introduced, participation was mandatory for hospitals in 67 metropolitan statistical a...