Register for Toll-free PQRI Teleconferences

Family physicians who have questions about CMS' Physician Quality Reporting Initiative, or PQRI, can participate in two upcoming toll-free teleconferences scheduled by CMS.

The PQRI teleconference dates and times are

The question-and-answer format of the teleconferences sets them apart from some previous PQRI teleconferences because it gives FPs an opportunity to directly question CMS experts on any aspect of the initiative.

PQRI establishes a financial incentive for eligible health professionals, such as family physicians, to participate in a voluntary quality reporting program during a six-month period beginning July 1 and ending Dec. 31. FPs who successfully report on a designated set of quality measures can earn a 1.5 percent bonus payment from Medicare.

Teleconference preregistration is required, and CMS encourages physicians to check out the PQRI "Educational Resources" section of the CMS Web site before the teleconferences to aid in preparing advance questions for the CMS presenters.

Physicians can direct inquiries regarding the teleconferences to CMS' Geanelle Griffith by phone at (410) 786-4466 or by e-mail.