The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking the submittal of measure proposals for the Annual Call for Measures for eligible hospitals and critical access hospitals participating in the Medicare Promoting Interoperability (PI) Program (formally known as the “Medicare EHR Incentive Program”). This new process intends to involve stakeholders in the evolution of the PI Program.

Measure proposals will be accepted until June 29, 2018 and will be considered for inclusion in rulemaking in calendar year (CY) 2019. If adopted through the rulemaking process, a measure would be optional for CY2020 and required for CY2021.

While all measures are welcome, CMS is particularly interested in adding measures that:

• Build on the advanced use of certified EHR technology (CEHRT) using 2015 Edition Standards and Certification Criteria;

• Increase CEHRT health information exchange and interoperability;

• Continue improving program efficiency, effectiveness, and flexibility;

• Measure patient outcomes; and

• Emphasize patient safety.

CMS will utilize certain criteria as part of the selection process for new measures:

• Would the measure reduce reporting burden?

• Is the measure duplicative of existing or previously removed objectives and measures?

• Would the measure include an emerging certified health IT functionality or capability?

To propose a measure, send the completed application to CMSCallforMeasuresEHR@Ketchum.com.  Applications can be found on the Promoting Interoperability Programs website.  Be sure to complete fully the application of a proposed measure since CMS will disqualify incomplete applications.

Additional information related to the 2018 Call for Measures can be found on the CMS website.