The QPP in 2018: Fun with NPRM Numbers

Why This Topic Matters

It helps readers understand how CMS’s proposed 2018 QPP changes could affect clinician participation, payment flow, and the practical impact on specialty practices. The piece is most relevant for clinicians, practice leaders, and coding or reimbursement professionals following Medicare quality payment policy.

Article Sections

1. Low-volume threshold

   Discusses proposed changes to the MIPS low-volume threshold and the potential effect on smaller and rural practices. It frames the issue in terms of estimated participation impacts and specialty relevance.

2. Advanced APMs

   Covers projected changes in Advanced APM participation and the factors that may expand qualifying participant numbers. It references broader model availability and updates affecting participation pathways.

3. Nominal risk

   Reviews the proposed standards related to financial risk in Advanced APMs. The section explains the topic at a high level and references the policy framework CMS uses in the proposal.

4. The butcher’s bill

   Summarizes CMS’s projected cost and budget-impact estimates tied to MIPS and Advanced APM participation. It focuses on the overall financial scale of the proposed rule.

5. Put those shoes back on

   Provides a concluding discussion about expected future growth in qualifying participants and the broader financial movement within the QPP. It closes with a general reflection on the proposed rule’s implications.