New demonstration project can exempt physicians from MIPS

Looking to avoid the reporting requirements and payment adjustments imposed by the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS)? A new demonstration project now taking applications may be your opportunity.

The Medicare Advantage Qualifying Payment Arrangement Incentive (MAQI) Demonstration is aimed at MIPS-eligible clinicians who agree to participate in certain payment arrangements with Medicare Advantage Organizations (MAOs). Those who sufficiently meet the participation requirements are exempt from the MIPS reporting requirements and payment adjustment for a year. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) wants to know if exempting such eligible physicians will increase or maintain participation in MAO payment arrangements similar to Advanced Alternative Payment Models and change the way participants deliver care.

CMS is now accepting applications for participation in the demonstration. Eligible physicians may apply at https://app1.innovation.cms.gov/MAQIAPP(app1.innovation.cms.gov). Applications are due by Sept. 6.

Additional information on the MAQI Demonstration is located at https://innovation.cms.gov/initiatives/maqi/(innovation.cms.gov).

– Kent Moore, Senior Strategist for Physician Payment for the American Academy of Family Physicians