CMS EHR Incentive Program Update

Calling 888-734-6433 will connect you to the CMS EHR Information Center Interactive Voice Response System (IVR) System. CMS has announced upgrades and new features to this system to assist you with topics like registration and attestation.

The upgrades will enable EHR Incentive program participants to obtain information on the program easily and more efficiently. From the main menu, press 1 for Hot Topics and press 2 for Information on NPPES and PECOS password resets. There are 8 hot topics and 2 selections the NPPES and PECOS. The service is available 7/24 except during planned system maintenance. The TTY number is 888-734-6563. You can also speak to a specialist through this system also by pressing “0”. The hours of operation for the EHR Information Center are Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 6:30pm CST except federal holidays.

Along with changes to the IVR system, CMS has also updated information on the EHR Incentive Programs on their web site. You can find new information on the Attestation pages about the appeals process for the program. Appeals for Eligible Professionals, Eligible Hospitals, and CAHs have been accepted since last December. The CMS Office of Clinical Standards and Quality (OCSQ) is also providing guidance on how to file an appeal. Their Division of Health Information Technology is tasked with review of appeals. On January 19th the division released the first informal review decision for the EHR Incentive Program. CMS expects informal review and appeal decisions to be posted on their web site by February. And by March, providers will be able to find receive their decisions through an appeals portal.