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CMS-1403-FC
to having a broad and robust set of quality measures for
the PQRI. However, we largely depend on the development of
measures by professional organizations and other measure
developers. Although we had significant involvement in the
development of measures applicable to eligible
professionals at the start of the PQRI, ideally we would
not need to be closely involved in the development of
clinician-level quality measures but would select from
measures that meet the statutory requirements. Thus, we
encourage professional organizations and other measure
developers to fund and develop measures that address some
of the gaps identified by the commenters.
Comment: One comment suggested that we add additional
measures in July of each year for implementation in that
year’s PQRI. For example, in July 2009, we should announce
additional measures for inclusion in the 2009 PQRI.
Response: Section 1848(k)(2)(B)(ii)requires us to
publish a proposed set of quality measures for inclusion in
a particular year’s PQRI program in the Federal Register by
no later than August 15 th of the prior year. Additionally,
section 1848(k)(2)(B)(iii) requires us to publish a final
set of quality measures for inclusion in a particular
year’s PQRI program in the Federal Register by no later
than November 15 th of the prior year. We are not authorized
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