Hardship for Meaningful Use

On Friday, January 22, 2016, CMS published changes to the hardship exemption process associated with meaningful use attestation.  The streamlined application process applies to those seeking an exemption for 2015.  Failure to secure an exemption or failure to attest to meaningful use in 2015 will result in a penalty of 3% from the provider’s Medicare reimbursements in 2017. 

The deadline for physicians to submit the hardship exemption application is March 15, 2016.  The various reasons for claiming an exemption are listed on the application.  Applications can be found at:  https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Legislation/EHRIncentivePrograms/paymentadj_hardship.html

Caution – If you are expecting to receive a bonus for successfully attesting to meaningful use in 2015, applying for an exemption will cancel the bonus payments including any additional bonus money.  Do not apply for an exemption if you expect to receive a MU bonus.