CMS Chief Andy Slavitt Again Floats Possible MACRA Delay

In a continuing dialog with providers on MACRA, Andy Slavitt addressed the American Osteopathic Association at their annual meeting Friday, once again hinting at a possible delay in implementation so that providers, especially smaller practices, have time to prepare.

"Some of the things that are on the table include alternative start dates, looking at whether shorter periods could be used, and finding other ways for physicians to get experience with the program before the impact of it really begins," Slavitt said.

He told the Association that physicians are ready for new, better-functioning program that focuses less on paperwork and reporting, and that many are already participating in elements of MACRA, namely the programs likemeaningful use that got rolled into MACRA. Still he said, the new rule constitutes sweeping change and Slavitt said CMS's goal is to make sure physicians are set up for success.