CMS said it will apply an automatic extreme and uncontrollable circumstances policy to all individual clinicians participating in the Merit-based Incentive Payment System.
Under the policy, clinicians will automatically have all performance categories weighted at 0 percent, meaning they will receive a neutral payment adjustment.
The automatic exception applies for the 2021 MIPS performance year.
CMS said it made the policy automatic because of the continuing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on clinicians across the U.S.
The automatic exception policy doesn't apply to groups, virtual groups or alternative payment model entities. These entities can still apply for an exception through the end of the year.