Mandatory Alternative Payment Model Performance Pathway (APP) reporting begins this year, bringing significant changes for Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). As we move into this new reporting era, the question isn’t whether to act but how to act effectively. Choosing the right reporting method is critical to ensure compliance and maximize your ACO’s return.
As a trusted partner, MRO understands the complexities of APP reporting and the importance of selecting the best submission method. With our ability to support all three reporting options—Electronic Clinical Quality Measures (eCQMs), Merit-based Incentive Payment System Clinical Quality Measures (MIPS CQMs), and Medicare Clinical Quality Measures (Medicare CQMs)—we’re here to help you submit your highest scores for maximum results.
The Current Landscape: Many ACOs Are Still Undecided
Our recent surveys reveal that up to 50% of ACOs haven’t yet selected a reporting method. If you’re in this group, you’re not alone, but now is the time to act. Early decisions will provide more time to address technical and operational challenges, ensuring a smoother transition and stronger performance.
For additional insights into selecting the best reporting path, check out our blog on Choosing the Right QPP Reporting Method for MSSP ACOs in 2025.
Understanding Your Options: eCQMs, MIPS CQMs, and Medicare CQMs
Before choosing a path, it’s essential to understand the differences between the three reporting methods:
- Electronic Clinical Quality Measures (eCQMs):
- eCQMs leverage structured data from certified Electronic Health Records (EHRs).
- They require the generation of QRDA-I files for both numerator and denominator measures, which makes them efficient but reliant on the technical capabilities of your EHR systems.
- Challenges: Aggregating data from multiple systems and ensuring interoperability can be complex. If even one practice’s EHR cannot produce QRDA-I files, this method may not be feasible.
- Merit-based Incentive Payment System Clinical Quality Measures (MIPS CQMs):
- MIPS CQMs offer greater flexibility, allowing data to be pulled from a variety of sources, including QRDA-Is and flat files, as long as it’s backed by the clinical record.
- This approach can be more labor-intensive initially, as it requires practices to generate and validate data. However, it’s ideal for ACOs with diverse systems or those seeking robust data for analytics and population health initiatives.
- Medicare Clinical Quality Measures (Medicare CQMs):
- Medicare CQMs focus solely on Medicare patients, leveraging claims-based data to identify measure populations.
- While this option reduces data aggregation efforts, it still requires validation of patient eligibility and clinical outcomes. Manual processes may increase staff workload.
How to Decide: Key Factors to Consider
Selecting the optimal reporting method depends on several factors unique to your ACO:
- Technical Readiness: Evaluate the capability of each practice’s EHR to produce the required data formats, such as QRDA-I files for eCQMs.
- Data Needs: Consider whether you require comprehensive data for population health management and future initiatives, which may favor MIPS CQMs.
- Cost and Resources: Assess the trade-offs between technical investments (eCQMs) and manual efforts (Medicare CQMs).
- Long-Term Strategy: Align your choice with CMS’s evolving requirements for digital and interoperable measures, which will become mandatory in the coming years.
For a deeper dive into CMS’s evolving quality reporting requirements, check out our blog on CMS Proposals for Healthcare Quality Reporting in 2025 and Beyond.
Why Choose MRO for Your APP Reporting Needs
At MRO, we go beyond simply offering technical solutions. We provide:
- Comprehensive Support: Our platform supports all three reporting methods, ensuring you have the flexibility to choose what works best for your ACO.
- Optimized Submissions: With our tools, you can combine data from different sources to submit the highest scores, maximizing your return.
- Expert Guidance: Our team of experts works with you to assess your organization’s readiness and develop a tailored strategy for success.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether your ACO is well-prepared or just starting its APP reporting journey, MRO is here to help you navigate the complexities of quality reporting. Let us show you how our solutions can empower your organization to achieve its goals.
For more context on how CMS changes impact ACOs, read our blog on Navigating the CMS 2025 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your ACO thrive in the 2025 reporting landscape.
