Many physicians welcomed CMS' announcement of the four "pick-your-pace" options under the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act, according to HealthLeaders Media. This eases the stress for physicians who did not feel ready for the full implementation of the MACRA reporting requirements on Jan. 1, 2017.
Here are five things to know:
1. CMS hopes to offer physicians more options reflective of diversified medical practices. Each option protects physicians from negative payment adjustments in 2019. The options are:
• Submit data reflective of your preparation for greater participation in 2018 and 2019.
• Submit full performance data for less than the full calendar year of 2017.
• Submit full performance data for the full calendar year of 2017.
• Participate in an Advanced Alternative Payment Model in 2017.
2. Practices feeling the program's burdens are now able to take a longer adjustment period, while prepared programs can still benefit from positive payment adjustments.
3. CMS did not delay the implementation of MACRA, which is still scheduled for 2019.
4. When implemented in 2019, most physicians will receive Medicare payments through the Merit-based Payment Incentive Systems based on quality, cost, clinical care improvement activities and EHR capabilities.
5. CMS will issue the final rule for MACRA's Medicare physician-payment updates by Nov. 1.