In response to feedback regarding the proposed implementation timeframe of the Quality Payment Program, CMS has announced in their blog additional flexibility in the 2017 participation year. The following four options have been provided by CMS:
- Test the Quality Payment Program
- Participate for part of the calendar year
- Participate for the full calendar year
- Participate in an Advanced Alternative Payment Model
All four of these alternatives allow providers to avoid a negative payment adjustment for the 2019 year. As physician billing for Medicare moves away from fee for service to the Quality Payment Program, it will require a strategic approach to ensure appropriate participation. Additional time to make these preparations can assist in making the transition smoother. However, until the release of the final rule this coming November, physicians and physician billers will not have the entire picture of how the revenue cycle management process will be impacted.