How have HCAHPS scores been used by CMS?

How have HCAHPS scores been used by CMS?

• A. They have no impact on payments
• B. They have affected hospital payments under the Hospital Value-Based Purchasing program
• C. They determine patient eligibility for Medicare
• D. They are used to set Part D premiums

Answer: (B)

HCAHPS scores are used by CMS to influence hospital payments through the Hospital Value-Based Purchasing program. This program ties a portion of Medicare reimbursements to performance on quality measures, including patient experience captured by HCAHPS. Hospitals with higher patient-satisfaction scores can receive higher payments, while poorer performers may have payment reductions. This use is different from determining Medicare eligibility or setting Part D premiums, which are based on other rules.

HCAHPS scores are used by CMS to influence hospital payments through the Hospital Value-Based Purchasing program. This program ties a portion of Medicare reimbursements to performance on quality measures, including patient experience captured by HCAHPS. Hospitals with higher patient-satisfaction scores can receive higher payments, while poorer performers may have payment reductions. This use is different from determining Medicare eligibility or setting Part D premiums, which are based on other rules.