• To describe CMS' Physician Quality Reporting Initiative and its relevance to physicians.
• To review an outline that will walk physicians through the process of implementing PQRI in their practice.
• To identify useful tools that will aid physicians in the reporting process.

The University of Alabama School of Medicine is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The University of Alabama School of Medicine designates this educational activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

The boards of nursing in many states, including Alabama, recognize Category 1 continuing medical education courses as acceptable activities for the renewal of license to practice nursing.

Dosages, indications, and methods of use of any drug referred to in this publication may reflect the clinical experience of the authors, clinical literature, or other clinical resources. Therefore, please see the full prescribing information before using any product mentioned.

UAB is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution.

By now, you’ve probably heard the term “PQRI” bandied about, and, if you have been participating in these CME activities, you are familiar with “P4P.” In an evolving and fluctuating health care system, there are problems with these and other mechanisms, which are intended to gauge quality and dispense health care dollars. There are potential advantages as well. Participation in the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) may help you to:

• Gain valuable reporting experience, both for Medicare, and more generally, for any pay-for-performance initiative
• Be prepared if the local market begins to compensate physicians based on the quality of the care they provide
• Implement improved, more consistent care in your practice
• Earn a bit of extra income

If you are interested in the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) and want to give it a try, this CME activity is a valuable resource.