CMS releases info about alternative payment model bonuses

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released information about bonus payments for qualifying participants in advanced alternative payment models (APMs). Participants can look up their bonus payment amount in the APM Incentive Payments for 2024 document. Information is also available in the Quality Payment Program (QPP) portal. If you believe you were eligible for a bonus but have not received it, CMS may not be able to verify your billing information. Review the 2024 QP Notice for APM Incentive Payment ZIP file to see if your name is on the list. You must verify your billing information by Sept. 1 for CMS to issue the payment.

MIPS final score previews available

CMS also opened the 2023 Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) Final Score preview period. The preview includes data regarding performance category scores and weights, bonus points, measure performance and scores, and activity scores. You can also review supplemental reports for administrative claims-based measures. The preview does not contain payment adjustment information — CMS will reveal those adjustments (which will apply in 2025) in August. Performance feedback is available on the QPP website. If you believe there is an error with your score, email the QPP Service Center or call 866-288-8292 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET  Monday-Friday). You can find additional information in the 2023 Final Score Preview FAQs and 2023 Final Score Preview Supplemental Reports.

MIPS Value Pathways open for registration

Practices can now register to report a MIPS Value Pathway (MVP) for performance year 2024. MVPs are a new MIPS reporting option that include a subset of measures related to a given specialty or medical condition. The “Value in Primary Care” MVP has been designed for primary care physicians. Practices can register to report an MVP on the QPP website. Registration is open until December 2, 2024.

Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances Exception open

CMS is also taking applications for the Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances Exception (EUC) for the 2024 performance year. Practices affected by events outside their control that impact their ability to collect and report data may apply for an exception for one or more performance categories. You can submit applications on the QPP website until 8 p.m. ET on Dec. 31. Additional information is available in the 2024 MIPS Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances Exception Application Guide.

— Erin Solis, Manager, Practice & Payment at the American Academy of Family Physicians

Posted on July 12, 2024