Avoid a Future MIPS Penalty! Apply Now for a Hardship Exception

May 12, 2023

Physicians can let out a big sigh of relief!

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is offering them the opportunity to apply for an Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances hardship exception in the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) if negatively impacted by the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE).

The hardship exception would allow physicians to avoid up to a 9% penalty. Currently, any MIPS penalties would be applied in 2025 based on the 2023 performance period. Physicians and groups who would like to apply for the exception must make a request to reweight one or more MIPS performance categories.

Medicare recognizes that certain circumstances may be out of a physician’s control, making it extremely difficult to meet program requirements.

Submit your application by Jan. 2, 2024.

If you have questions, please contact the ISMS Health Policy Research and Advocacy team by email.