Finalized MACRA Rule Ties Quality Measurements to Value-Based Payments

CMS has finalized a much anticipated rule that serves as a significant step in tying quality care with value-based payments.
The Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015 (MACRA) institutes new regulations that will bolster CMS’ Quality Payment Program by rewarding value through Advanced Alternative Payment Models (APM) and the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS).
“By implementing MACRA to promote participation in certain APMs, such as the Shared Saving Program, Medical Home Models, and innovative episode payment models for cardiac and joint care, and by paying eligible clinicians for quality and value under MIPS, we support the nation’s progress toward achieving a patient-centered healthcare system that delivers better care, smarter spending, and healthier people and communities,” CMS wrote in its final rule.
CMS added that it expects the Quality Payment Program will evolve over the next several years to keep pace with a changing healthcare infrastructure and technological advancements. The agency noted that 2017 will serve as a “transition year” to allow providers to adapt to the new reporting and payment requirements.