PQRS in 2015 will require care in measures selection to avoid 2 pay cuts

Why This Topic Matters

The article matters because 2015 introduced reporting changes that could affect whether practices avoid penalties under both PQRS and the value modifier. Readers can use it to understand the scope of the updated CMS requirements and where to review the relevant fee schedule tables and rule-based guidance.

Article Sections

1. Quality reporting

   Introduces the 2015 Medicare quality reporting environment and the broader context for PQRS and value-modifier changes.

2. 5 key changes to note for 2015

   Summarizes the main program changes discussed in the article and points readers to the relevant fee schedule tables and rule references.

3. Report nine measures to avoid penalties

   Discusses the updated reporting expectations and the relationship between measure submission, validation review, and penalty exposure.

4. Include at least one cross-cutting measure

   Covers the new cross-cutting measure requirement, registry considerations, and how practices may need to evaluate supported measures.

5. Measures groups were redefined and four were deleted

   Explains that measures groups changed for 2015 and notes that some groups were removed while others remained partially available for reporting.

6. Don't assume the individual measures you used this year will be in play next year

   Describes broad updates to the individual measure set, including additions, deletions, shifts, and changes affecting reporting categories.

7. Watch out for the value-modifier adjustment

   Outlines the changes to value-modifier applicability for different practice sizes and the article’s discussion of potential penalty and bonus exposure.