What is a qualifying reason for MIPS eligible clinicians to be excluded from reporting requirements?

The first year of Medicare participation serves as a qualifying reason for MIPS eligible clinicians to be excluded from reporting requirements. This exemption is put in place to allow new participants to acclimate to the Medicare system without the additional burden of MIPS reporting. It recognizes that these individuals are still learning the intricacies of Medicare regulations and how to navigate the performance measures associated with MIPS.

While high income thresholds, full-time employment status, or being in part-time practice may affect aspects of a clinician’s practice, they do not specifically categorize someone for exclusion from MIPS reporting obligations. The program is designed to encourage quality improvement in clinical practice, and the exemption for first-year participants aids in not overwhelming new clinicians who are just starting to familiarize themselves with Medicare policies and quality reporting.