After the 2024 performance year, CMS will retire the Web Interface, marking a significant shift in reporting requirements for ACOs. Starting in 2025, ACOs participating in the Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP) must report on eCQMs or CQMs under the new APM Performance Pathway (APP).

Understanding the New Requirements

ACOs will transition to reporting three APP eCQMs/CQMs focusing on diabetes, depression screening, and hypertension, alongside the CAHPS for MIPS Survey and two administrative claims-based measures. Unlike the previous Web Interface, which required reporting on a sample of 248 Medicare patients per measure, the APP demands data from at least 70% of all eligible patients across payers. This significant increase in data collection requires advanced preparation and coordination.

The Quality Performance Scoring

ACOs will receive a score between 3 to 10 points for each quality measure based on their performance compared to national benchmarks. These quality performance scores will be calculated using the same MIPS benchmarks applied to other non-ACO individual and group reporters. CMS will gradually increase the required level of quality performance to meet the Shared Savings Program standards:

• 2022 to 2023: ACOs must achieve a quality performance score at or above the 30th percentile across all MIPS quality performance category scores, excluding entities/providers eligible for facility-based scoring. Alternatively, they can report the three eCQM/MIPS CQM measures, meet data completeness and case minimum requirements, and achieve at least the 10th percentile on one of the four outcome measures and the 30th percentile on one of the remaining five measures in the APP set.
• 2024 and subsequent years: ACOs must achieve a quality performance score at or above the 40th percentile across all MIPS quality performance category scores, excluding entities/providers eligible for facility-based scoring.

Steps to Prepare for APP Reporting

1. Choose the Right Vendor Partner

Selecting a reliable partner with extensive experience in data aggregation and reporting is crucial. Look for vendors that offer comprehensive support throughout the reporting process, utilizing advanced data aggregation technology to handle diverse data sources and formats, ensuring accurate and timely submission to CMS.

2. Review Your Data Platforms

Identify all platforms capturing data relevant to the new quality measures. An effective partner can integrate data from various EHRs, billing systems, and custom files, streamlining the aggregation process and ensuring compliance with CMS requirements.

3. Develop a Data Collection Plan

Efficient data collection is crucial. Establish workflows to gather all-payer data from all ACO participants. The new updates will require ACOs to combine eCQM/CQM data from all participants so that it can be submitted in one file. This means collecting and combining data from multiple EHR systems across all practices.

4. Start Tracking Performance

Begin tracking the APP measures now to identify areas for improvement. Utilize tools that enable ongoing performance monitoring at the ACO, TIN, and individual clinician levels, allowing for timely adjustments and maximization of performance scores and incentive payments.

Why Start Now?

The discontinuation of the Web Interface marks a significant change, requiring ACOs to adapt to more complex data reporting demands. Early preparation is essential to ensure compliance and optimize performance. By understanding the new requirements and implementing the necessary strategies, ACOs can navigate these changes effectively.

How Quantician Can Help

For ACOs seeking assistance with this transition, many qualified registries, like Quantician, offer the necessary expertise and support to meet the new CMS requirements effectively. Whether you need help with data collection, aggregation, or strategic advice, partnering with experienced professionals can ensure a smooth transition to the APP reporting requirements.

When CMS ends the Web Interface, it will result in significant Medicare reporting changes for ACOs. Reporting the new APP Quality measures will be complicated and involve more data collection, so it’s important to start planning with Quantician now. With proper preparation and the right support, ACOs can successfully navigate these changes and maximize their quality performance. Schedule a demo with Quantician today.