For details on calculating the various criteria, some of which are complex and subtle, Dr. Harvey recommended looking at the rheumatology MVP toolkit provided online by the CMS. Understanding the details of these criteria can help clinicians decide which ones make the most sense to track. As of this writing, however, the CMS has not updated the toolkit to reflect the most recent changes to MVPs; these updates are expected in the next several weeks.
Previously, the CMS announced it is considering making MVPs the mandatory mode of MIPS participation. However, it has not officially announced when and if submitting under the traditional MIPS program might be fully phased out. At least for the present, physicians can choose to report through MVPs or traditional MIPS. Clinicians can also opt to report their data via both traditional MIPS and the rheumatology MVP, and the CMS will calculate reimbursement based on the method that provides a more favorable outcome for the medical provider.
Any rheumatologist with questions or concerns about implementing an MVP via the RISE registry can contact [email protected] for support. Those wishing to participate in the MVP program in the coming year need to register between April 1 and Nov. 30, 2023.
Ruth Jessen Hickman, MD, is a graduate of the Indiana University School of Medicine. She is a freelance medical and science writer living in Bloomington, Ind.
