Navigating the MIPS EUC Exception for the 2024 Performance Year
The healthcare landscape is ever-changing, with new challenges continually emerging. One such challenge recently confronted many medical practices: the Change Healthcare cyber-attack. If your practice has been affected, you may be eligible for the MIPS Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances (EUC) Exception.
What You Need to Know
The MIPS EUC Exception application for the 2024 performance year is now available. Applications will be accepted until 8 p.m. ET on December 31, 2024. This exception offers a lifeline for practices unable to meet MIPS requirements due to circumstances beyond their control. This is particularly relevant for those impacted by the Change Healthcare cyber-attack.
Understanding Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances
What qualifies as an "extreme and uncontrollable circumstance"? These are rare events that are entirely outside of your control and the control of your practice. To qualify, these circumstances must:
Prevent you from collecting necessary information to submit for a MIPS performance category.
Hinder your ability to submit information used to score a MIPS performance category over an extended period. For instance, data for the quality performance category was unable to be collected for three months.
Disrupt your normal processes, thereby affecting your performance on cost measures and other administrative claims measures.
Who Can Apply?
If your practice is reporting through traditional MIPS, MVPs, or the APM Performance Pathway (APP), you can apply for this exception. The critical factor is demonstrating how extreme and uncontrollable circumstances, such as the cyber-attack, have affected your practice's ability to meet MIPS requirements.
Filing Your Application
The application process is straightforward. Here's how to get started:
Assess Your Situation: Determine if your practice has been significantly impacted by the cyber-attack.
Gather Evidence: Collect documentation that supports your claim of extreme and uncontrollable circumstances.
Submit Your Application: Complete the MIPS EUC Exception application online before the deadline.
Key Deadlines
Application Availability: Now open
Application Deadline: 8 p.m. ET, December 31, 2024
Benefits of Applying
Applying for the MIPS EUC Exception can provide your practice with much-needed relief. It acknowledges the disruptions caused by unforeseen events and ensures that your practice is not unfairly penalized during the performance year. This exception can allow you to focus on recovery and maintaining the quality of care for your patients without the added pressure of meeting MIPS requirements under challenging conditions.
Final Thoughts
The MIPS EUC Exception is an essential resource for medical practices facing unprecedented challenges. If your practice has been affected by the Change Healthcare cyber-attack, take advantage of this opportunity. Gather the necessary documentation and submit your application promptly to secure the support your practice needs.
