Explore eligibility requirements and scoring standards for the first year of MIPS

Why This Topic Matters

Understanding the initial MIPS requirements is important for practices trying to determine whether they must participate, which reporting route applies, and how early performance affects future Medicare payment adjustments.

Article Sections

1. Introduction to MIPS and the Quality Payment Program

   Introduces the first year of the program and places it within the broader Medicare payment reform framework. It also summarizes the major reporting pathways available under the new system.

2. Program structure and scoring categories

   Describes the main performance categories used in the first reporting year and explains their role in the overall scoring model. It also notes how the first-year weighting framework is organized.

3. Eligibility requirements for individuals and groups

   Outlines who may participate in the program during the first reporting year and distinguishes between individual and group participation. This section also covers basic submission options and related administrative requirements.

4. Alternative participation through APMs

   Summarizes the alternative pathway for clinicians participating through approved models and the general participation criteria referenced for that option. It also identifies the types of models mentioned for the reporting year.

5. Low threshold in 2017

   Explains the first-year scoring environment and the purpose of the initial low threshold for avoiding a penalty. It also discusses the flexible nature of early participation and the transition to fuller reporting in later years.