New MIPS participation option has streamlined reporting

Beginning this year, Medicare is offering a new Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) participation option intended to streamline reporting requirements: the Alternative Payment Model (APM) Performance Pathway (APP). The APP is a reporting framework that complements the MIPS Value Pathways, and is available only to participants in MIPS APMs.

The APP will include a single, predetermined set of measures that MIPS APM participants may report on at the individual, group, and/or APM Entity levels beginning with the 2021 performance year. The APP is designed to provide reliable and consistent MIPS reporting requirements to reduce the reporting burden and encourage continued APM participation. Any MIPS-eligible clinician who is on a participation list or affiliated practitioner list of any APM Entity participating in a MIPS APM on one of the 2021 snapshot dates (March 31, June 30, Aug. 31, Dec. 31) may report via the APP. The APP is required for all Medicare Shared Savings Program accountable care organizations (ACOs), but MIPS-eligible clinicians who participate in those ACOs have the option to report through the APP outside of the ACO, or participate in MIPS outside of the APP at the individual or group level.

To learn more, visit the QPP website and access the following resources:

• APM Performance Pathway Webpage

• 2021 APM Performance Pathway (APP) for MIPS APM Participants Fact Sheet

• APM Performance Pathway for MIPS APM Participants in 2021 Infographic

You can also contact the QPP at 1-866-288-8292 or by e-mail at: QPP@cms.hhs.gov To receive assistance more quickly, consider calling during non-peak hours (before 10 a.m. and after 2 p.m. ET). Individuals who are hearing impaired can dial 711 to be connected to a TRS Communications Assistant.

— Kent Moore, Senior Strategist for Physician Payment, American Academy of Family Physicians