E-prescribing: You have new e-Rx exemptions and more time to file before 2013

Why This Topic Matters

These updates affect whether practices may qualify for relief from e-prescribing payment adjustments and how they document participation in CMS incentive programs. Staying current with these policy changes can help practices avoid avoidable penalties and align reporting activities with federal requirements.

Article Sections

1. CMS hardship exemption reopening and filing window

   Covers the reopened CMS support page and the extended opportunity to submit hardship exemption requests related to the e-prescribing program. It also notes the timing of the filing window and the finality of CMS decisions.

2. New hardship exemptions tied to meaningful use and EHR incentive participation

   Summarizes the new exemption categories added in the 2013 physician fee schedule. The section addresses how CMS connects e-prescribing relief to broader electronic health record incentive program participation.

3. Other existing exemptions

   Reviews the previously established exemption categories that remain available to eligible professionals and group practices. The section is limited to the general types of circumstances covered by those exemptions.

4. CMS lowers e-Rx threshold

   Describes the revised group practice reporting threshold and the related reporting periods discussed by CMS. It also mentions the agency’s response to public comments on the proposed threshold.

5. Official resources

   Lists the referenced CMS-related resource for additional information and support.