Physical and Occupational Therapists do not need to report for MIPS in 2017 and 2018.
Beginning January 1, 2017, CMS is replacing PQRS with the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS). MIPS is intended to be a more flexible and comprehensive quality reporting system that also covers meaningful use and the value-based modifier.
The good news for therapists is that they are not required to report MIPS measures for 2017 and 2018 and therefore will not be subject to payment reductions for either 2019 or 2020. (Like PQRS, MIPS adjustments are made two years after the reporting year.)
Keep in mind that because PQRS payment adjustments apply two years after the reporting year, if a therapist (or his/her group) does not satisfy PQRS reporting requirements in 2015 and 2016, Medicare payments will still be reduced in 2017 and 2018, respectively. The follow table shows the reporting system for each year and what year is used for payment adjustments.
