(Source: CliniSync Connects)
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released one stage of the final MACRA rule on October 14. Although the rule is final for some provisions, CMS is asking for comments on other sections of the rule.
The parts that are finalized will go into effect Sunday, January 1, 2017; for non-final provisions, there will be an additional 60-day comment period after the official publication of the rule in the Federal Register.
Some of the finalized provisions go to the following areas:
- 2017 Reporting: There will be a tiered approach to reporting for 2017 based upon the provider’s technical readiness. Providers have four options, including submitting only one measure to avoid penalties. There will be no negative adjustment for Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) providers for any costs above the national thresholds.
- Minimum Reporting Requirements: CMS has adjusted the exemption for small providers. Under the final rule, if a provider has 100 or fewer Medicare Part B patients in a reporting period, or less than $30,000 in Medicare Part B allowed charges, then the provider is exempt from MIPS reporting and exempt from any bonuses or penalties.
- Advanced Alternative Payment Models (APMs): CMS expanded this category to allow for more participation as an APM provider. The risk-bearing requirements were decreased in some areas, especially Medicare Shared Savings Program ACOs. More models were listed that would be easier for small practices to participate in.
Following is the CliniSyncPLUS webinar schedule:
Information Blocking Audits – What You Need to Know!
During this webinar Cathy & Scott will provide a deep dive into the provisions of MACRA that address information blocking and the audits to ensure that interoperability functions within your electronic health record are enabled and functioning.
Thursday, November 10
Noon – 1 p.m.
Pre-registration is required
Deep Dive into MIPS
During this webinar the CliniSyncPLUS team will provide a deep dive into the MIPs portion of the MACRA final rule.
Friday, November 11
Noon – 1 p.m.
Pre-registration is required
Monday, November 14
4 – 5 p.m.
Pre-registration is required
Deep Dive into APM
During this webinar our CliniSyncPLUS team will provide a deep dive into the APM portion of the MACRA final rule.
Tuesday, November 15
8 – 9 a.m.
Pre-registration is required
Wednesday, November 16
Noon – 1 p.m.
Pre-registration is required