The Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) continues under the Quality Payment Program (QPP) for CY2026. Here’s what changed and what providers need to know before the reporting period closes.
CY2026 performance category weights
| Category | Weight |
|---|---|
| Quality | 30% |
| Promoting Interoperability | 25% |
| Improvement Activities | 15% |
| Cost | 30% |
Low-volume threshold (exemption)
Providers who bill ≤ $90,000 in Medicare Part B allowed charges OR see ≤ 200 Medicare Part B patients OR provide ≤ 200 covered professional services are exempt from MIPS reporting. Exempt providers are not subject to the payment adjustment (positive or negative) for that year.
Small practices (≤ 15 clinicians) receive bonus points and have additional reporting flexibility.
Promoting Interoperability (PI)
PI requirements for 2026 require the use of a certified EHR (2015 Edition or later). Key objectives:
- e-Prescribing (including EPCS for controlled substances)
- Health Information Exchange
- Provider-to-Patient exchange (patient access to records)
- Public Health and Clinical Data Exchange
⚠️ Hardship exemptions are available for providers who cannot meet PI requirements due to lack of internet access, EHR availability, or other qualifying circumstances. Hardship applications must be submitted before the deadline.
Reporting options
- MIPS Value Pathways (MVPs) — specialty-specific reporting sets that combine measures across categories. Available for most common specialties.
- Traditional MIPS — full category-by-category reporting.
- Group reporting — groups of 2+ eligible clinicians can report as a group under the group’s TIN.
The reporting period closes March 31, 2027 for CY2026 performance data.
Ask Mae if you have specific questions about whether you’re required to participate or how to report.