Proposed 2018 MIPS scoring: Do the math to be prepared

Why This Topic Matters

Understanding the proposed scoring structure helps practices estimate performance, anticipate category impacts, and prepare for how future MIPS thresholds may shift based on prior-year results. The article is especially relevant for groups comparing category performance under different practice scenarios and for those tracking CMS and MACRA policy changes.

Article Sections

1. MIPS scoring basics

   Introduces the proposed MIPS scoring framework and explains the overall approach to calculating a composite score. It frames the article around the major components that contribute to performance under the Quality Payment Program.

2. Quality category math and examples

   Describes the quality performance category and how percentage scores are derived from available points and category weight. It also discusses how group characteristics and benchmarking can affect the category calculation.

3. Watch the benchmarks

   Addresses the role of benchmarks in quality scoring and notes how performance comparison against other providers can influence results. It also touches on data completeness as a factor in scoring.

4. Other performance categories

   Summarizes the remaining major MIPS categories and their general weighting within the score. It provides a broad overview of how these categories contribute to the total performance calculation.

5. Good 2017 = tough 2019

   Explains the policy context around proposed thresholds and the transition to future years under MACRA. It discusses how prior performance years may affect the threshold environment going forward.