MIPS is sending out shock waves. And there’s no doubt, MIPS can be intimidating.
But let’s face it, this probably isn’t your first experience with healthcare reform. Most ENT clinicians have managed to survive Meaningful Use, so there’s a good chance you can handle the Merit-based Incentive Payment System, better known as MIPS.
An ENT clinician’s survival guide to MIPS
To survive in MIPS territory, you must wrap your head around these steps:
1 – Stay focused on MU and PQRS
You’ll still need these basic metrics – as Meaningful Use, Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS) and Value Based Modifier (VBM) will compose up to 85% of your future Composite Performance Score. You can bet your financial incentives on that score. Take time now to figure them out.
2 – Dig into clinical quality measures
For ENT specialists, it’s critical to identify the potentially highest performing clinical quality measures appropriate to your scope of practice. Check these measures against other quality program initiatives. Figure out how to maximize efficiency and performance levels. These are absolutely key to survival in MIPS.
3 – Examine your EHR system’s viability
Is your electronic health records technology certified? Some systems aren’t able to collect quality data, so that you can report on quality measures. Are you able to connect easily and communicate well with other EHR systems? EHR connectivity is a major factor in MIPS scoring.
4 – Get on top of PQRS reporting
Check out the various PQRS reporting systems, and find the best fit for your ENT practice. Analyze how the system handles details specific to your specialty. The reporting mechanisms can vary greatly, so read the fine print.
5 – Embrace APMs
It’s time to investigate Alternative Payment Models, as they are the new reality – Accountable Care Organization (ACO), Medicare Shared Savings Program, Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH), etc. Highest-achieving providers within these systems will have the best financial rewards opportunities in MIPS.
6 – Monitor. Make changes.
Examine your quality report dashboards regularly. Monitor them to identify deficiencies, fix and move upward to the next performance level.
ENT specialists can survive in the new MIPS environment. MIPS is the next step in the healthcare reform process. Keep the incentives front and center, as they will be your well-earned reward.
