Changes to the 2011 E-Prescribing (eRx) Incentive Program
On August 31, 2011, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced significant changes to the Medicare Electronic Prescribing (eRx) Incentive Program for the 2011 program year. A fact sheet outlining the changes can be found here.
Effective October 6, 2011, the three following major changes will take effect:
1. Modifying the eRx measure to allow for use of Certified EHR Technology for purposes of reporting for the 2011 eRx incentive and 2013 eRx payment adjustment;
2. Providing additional significant hardship exemption categories for the 2012 eRx payment adjustment; and
3. Extending the deadline for eligible professionals to request a significant hardship exemption for the 2012 eRx payment adjustment to November 1, 2011.
It is very important to note that providers now have until November 1, 2011 to register for a hardship exemption under the eRx program, including a new exemption for Eligible professionals who register to participate in the 2011 Medicare or Medicaid EHR Incentive Program and adopt certified EHR technology, to avoid payment adjustments under the eRx program. The process for applying for a hardship is outlined in this document.
