APMA would like to notify members about another round of field testing for the Non-Pressure Ulcer Episode-Based Cost Measure (NPUECM) that will open on January 29 and run through February 27. Read more below to find out how you can participate and help APMA.
What Is Field Testing?
During field testing, clinicians or clinician groups who meet minimum criteria will receive an informational Field Test Report through their QPP Portal account. Supplemental materials like Frequently Asked Questions, a Mock Field Test Report, measure specifications documentation, and testing results are also publicly posted for review.
For the past several years, APMA has worked closely with CMS and Acumen on the clinician expert workgroup responsible for developing the preliminary measure specifications for NPUECM. Field testing is a unique opportunity for anyone to give comments on the measures—even if you are not a workgroup member or did not receive a Field Test Report. Once this measure is finalized, it could impact you financially in future MIPS Performance Years.
Previous Field Testing: February 2024
Acumen previously ran a field test in February 2024 and has worked to make updates to these reports based on the feedback it acquired. Acumen has sought to make the reports clearer and more actionable to providers by:
Providing more context and guidance on the report metrics
Updating educational materials and outreach efforts to help clinicians and other interested parties understand the measure specifications and how to navigate the reports
Specifically, Acumen will have a recording of its team reviewing a field test report for reference. It will also post new At-A-Glance documents, which summarize measure specifications and key takeaways in plain language.
APMA Needs Your Assistance
APMA requests that any members who receive a Field Test Report share it with APMA. We want to ensure that the podiatric profession's voice is heard. We need your feedback to advocate for you.
If you have questions or wish to share feedback with APMA, please email mips@apma.org. For detailed information on the Non-Pressure Ulcers Episode-based Cost Measure development process and field testing, go to www.apma.org/npucost.
APMA will continue to share updates related to this initiative as they become available.