Eligible Professionals Must Submit Hardship Exception Applications by July 1, 2014

CMS reminds eligible professionals that the deadline to submit a hardship exception application is approaching. An interactive tool is available to help eligible professionals determine if they will avoid upcoming 2015 and 2016 Medicare EHR Incentive Program payment adjustments by demonstrating meaningful use, or if they should apply for a hardship exception.

If an eligible professional determines that they need to apply for a hardship exception, the application must be submitted by July 1, 2014. CMS will review applications to determine whether or not a hardship exception will be granted. If approved, the exception is valid for one year.

Applying for Hardship Exception
When submitting hardship exception applications, entries must include supporting documentation that proves demonstrating meaningful use presented significant hardship.

CMS has posted hardship exception applications on the EHR website for:

• Eligible professionals
• Eligible professionals submitting multiple National Provider Identifiers (NPIs)

Please read and follow the submission instructions on the application. Note that all required supporting documentation must be included at the time of submission. Completing your application online and submitting it electronically to EHRhardship@provider-resources.com, with all required supporting documentation, will reduce the application processing time. Please do not submit hand-written applications.

Hardship Exception Tipsheets
You can also avoid payment adjustments by successfully demonstrating meaningful use prior to the payment adjustment. Tipsheets are available on the CMS website that outline when eligible professionals must demonstrate meaningful use in order to avoid the payment adjustments.

Want more information about the EHR Incentive Programs?
Make sure to visit the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs website for the latest news and updates on the EHR Incentive Programs.