For the Record: Qualified Clinical Data Registries Take the Measure of Data-For the record: Qualified clinical data registries take the measure of data

For the record: Qualified clinical data registries take the measure of data

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The article by Mark Harris in CMA Today highlights the significant shifts introduced by the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) of 2015, which aims to reform Medicare payments. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the final rule for MACRA on October 14, 2016, leading to the introduction of new performance measurements starting in 2017.<br /><br />MACRA replaces the outdated sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula and moves toward a value-based payment system. This system emphasizes the quality of care over the volume of services provided, aiming to enhance patient outcomes through Medicare’s new Quality Payment Program (QPP).<br /><br />QPP offers providers resources to improve care quality, including the Qualified Clinical Data Registry (QCDR). QCDRs are specialized registries designed to enhance data collection in specific medical fields to improve best practices. Under MACRA, providers can participate in two main tracks: the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) or Advanced Alternative Payment Models (APMs).<br /><br />MIPS consolidates several previous programs such as meaningful use (MU), Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS), and Physician Value-Based Payment Modifier (VM) into a singular performance score. Based on this score, clinicians may receive payment bonuses, penalties, or adjustments. Four key reporting categories contribute to this MIPS score: Quality, Advancing care information, Clinical practice improvement activities, and Cost.<br /><br />The QCDR plays a pivotal role by providing robust data and analytics, helping specialty practices identify best practices and improve care coordination. Examples of QCDR usage include the American Society of Anesthesiologists and the Diabetes Collaborative Registry, which collect data across multiple specialties to improve patient management and outcomes.<br /><br />The transition to value-based care models, fostered by MACRA and facilitated by QCDRs, represents a significant shift in Medicare's approach, aiming at more comprehensive and effective patient care. The article underscores the long-term goals of these changes and encourages medical professionals to familiarize themselves with the new reporting and participation requirements to adapt successfully to the evolving Medicare landscape.

Keywords

MACRA

Medicare

Quality Payment Program

QPP

MIPS

Advanced Alternative Payment Models

APMs

Qualified Clinical Data Registry

QCDR

value-based care