Quality reporting: PQRS 2016 — Anesthesia changes, increased focus on registry reporting

Why This Topic Matters

PQRS participation affects quality reporting performance and downstream payment adjustments, so practices need to understand which measures and reporting pathways apply for the year. The article also highlights deadline-sensitive registry requirements that can affect whether a practice can report successfully.

Article Sections

1. Quality reporting basics and PQRS performance pressure

   Introduces the overall PQRS reporting framework and the broader CMS quality reporting environment for 2016. It sets up the context for changes affecting physician practices and reporting compliance.

2. Anesthesia reporting changes

   Summarizes updates affecting anesthesia-focused reporting, including shifts in available measures and reporting methods. It also notes how some anesthesia-related services may be treated differently from anesthesia-only practice patterns.

3. Check reporting method, domain status

   Reviews new measures by reporting pathway and notes that CMS updated national quality domain status for selected measures. The section focuses on how practices should evaluate measure availability and reporting format.

4. MAV still in effect

   Explains that measures applicability validation remains part of the PQRS process for providers who do not meet the basic reporting pattern. The section addresses CMS review of claims-based performance for compliance purposes.

5. CMS walks back new survey requirement

   Covers CAHPS participation expectations for group practices reporting through GPRO and how CMS adjusted the survey requirement for smaller groups. It distinguishes between optional and mandatory survey participation by practice size.

6. Keep an eye on registries

   Discusses qualified registry and qualified clinical data registry participation, annual approval timing, and vendor readiness considerations. It also notes CMS documentation and contact-information expectations tied to audit support.