Amanda McNutt, Director of Clinical Operations for Columbus Radiology, characterizes her practice as a late bloomer when it comes to PQRS. The group of more than 30 radiologists received their first successful incentive payment for the 2011 program year, something that more than half of all radiologists did not achieve. McNutt is modest about the accomplishment, however, and indicates that the group left money on the table by delaying PQRS participation. “We were behind the eight ball and could have benefited from the incentive earlier had we initiated the process when the program started.”
For Columbus Radiology, success was linked to strong commitment by the leadership and allocation of the right resources to the project. “I think having our physician Quality Improvement Safety Officer spearhead the process was definitely helpful,” said McNutt. “Our billing staff had to complete the majority of the build so their input was also very important. All in all, we did not have an issue getting the project up and running once the radiologists were on board and the resources were identified.”
The group relied heavily on external resources, which it credits as part of the reason they achieved a good result. “The Ohio RBMA was hugely helpful. We were able to access several good presentation decks regarding PQRS to orient us with the process and requirements. Our registry also helped guide the process and conducted early testing to ensure we were meeting the requirements,” said McNutt. “That way we didn’t get to the end of the year and realize we were missing a key element. Our data was reviewed and validated 1 month in.”
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Teri Yates is Principal Consultant of Accountable Radiology Advisors (ARA), a consulting practice dedicated to helping radiologists and hospitals deliver services of higher value.
