An Explanation of MACRA MIPS: Core Elements and Their Relevance
- The name MACRA, or the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act, presented a new era of the healthcare reimbursement system that was centered on the quality and not on quantity. The main point of it is the MIPS program that rates healthcare providers using four main areas:
1. Quality
The element evaluates the total quality of patient care. The data to be provided by the providers should be data concerning clinical quality measures that are relevant to their specialties. Quality care also means the improved results of a patient; it can also have a great impact on reimbursement rates.
2. Promoting Interoperability (formerly Advancing Care Information)
This category focuses on the efficient utilization of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) to coordinate healthcare and transfer data. Through technology, providers can improve communication among patients and medical staff, leading to enhanced patient satisfaction and better clinical outcomes.
3. Improvement Activities
Healthcare providers are also supposed to undertake certain improvement activities which are aimed at improving the provision of high quality care. Such activities can include the introduction of evidence-based practice, quality improvement activities, or implementation of innovative care models.
4. Cost
Cost reporting implies the examination of resource use and the possibility to minimize costs without affecting the quality of care. The providers should prove that they efficiently and effectively utilize the healthcare resources.
