E-prescribers are required to use a qualifying e-Rx system and report the proper G Code (G8553) on at least 10 Medicare Part B claims from Jan. 1-June 30, 2011, to avoid the 2012 penalty.
However, EPs who find it difficult to meet the 10 e-script requirement can apply for one of the following exemption categories by Oct. 1 of this year:
* Their practice is located in a rural area without high-speed internet access.
* Their practice is located in an area without sufficient available pharmacies for e-Rx.
* hey are registered to participate in the Medicare or Medicaid Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program and have adopted certified EHR technology.
* They are unable to electronically prescribe due to local, state or federal law or regulation (such as prescribing controlled substances).
* They prescribe infrequently (for example, they prescribed fewer than 10 prescriptions between Jan. 1 and June 30).
* There are insufficient opportunities to report the e-Rx measure due to program limitations (for example, a surgeon e-prescribes but not on the date of the patient encounter in accordance with the program requirements).
CMS will finalize its changes to the e-Rx penalty program sometime this summer.
