MIPS Survival Guide for Small Practices: Simplifying Success

Small practices play a vital role in the healthcare system, but participating in the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) can feel overwhelming for practices with limited resources. The good news is that CMS has implemented policies and benefits specifically designed to support small practices. This guide offers a comprehensive plan to simplify your participation and succeed in MIPS for 2025.

1. Leverage Small Practice Benefits

Small practices (15 or fewer clinicians under the same TIN) are eligible for special considerations in MIPS reporting.

• Automatic 6-Point Quality Bonus: Every small practice receives a 6-point bonus in the Quality category, even if they don’t score well on all measures. This can make a significant difference in achieving the 75-point performance threshold.

• Flexible Reporting Options: Small practices can use Medicare Part B claims for reporting Quality measures, which is simpler than eCQMs or registry submissions.

• Reduced Requirements for Improvement Activities (IA): You only need to complete one high-weighted activity or two medium-weighted activities to earn full credit for this category.

  
  

2. Simplify Promoting Interoperability (PI)

Promoting Interoperability (PI) can be challenging for small practices, especially those with limited EHR capabilities. Here’s how to navigate this category:

• Hardship Exemptions: If your practice faces barriers to implementing CEHRT, apply for a PI hardship exemption to reweight the category to zero.

• Focus on Basic Measures:

  • Use e-Prescribing for at least one Medicare Part D patient.

  • Promote the use of your patient portal for accessing lab results or appointment scheduling.

• Collaborate with Your EHR Vendor: Many vendors offer support for configuring your system to meet PI requirements.

  
  

3. Prioritize Improvement Activities (IA)

Many small practices are already engaging in activities that qualify for IA credit without realizing it. Focus on these common activities:

• Care Coordination:

  • Referrals to specialists with documented follow-ups.

  • Scheduling same-day or next-day appointments for urgent needs.

• Telehealth:

  • Implementing virtual visits, which became more prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Patient Engagement:

  • Offering self-management tools for chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.

Documentation Tip: Keep a record of completed activities, including dates, staff involved, and evidence of patient impact.

4. Stay Ahead of MIPS Deadlines

• Start early by identifying your reporting mechanisms and eligible measures at the beginning of the year.

• Use internal checkpoints throughout the year to monitor progress in each category.

• Submit data well before the March 31, 2026, deadline to allow for corrections if needed.

  
  

Small practices can thrive in MIPS with the right strategies and support. By leveraging small practice benefits, focusing on achievable measures, and simplifying reporting processes, you can meet the performance threshold and avoid penalties. If MIPS still feels overwhelming, consider working with a MIPS consultant who can guide you through the process from start to finish. Contact us today to see if we can help! 803-205-2455

Click Me