MACRA introduced which program for physicians?

• A. MACRA introduced the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) with bonus payments for participation in eligible APMs
• B. MACRA created a universal capitation system
• C. MACRA banned all APMs
• D. MACRA reduced physician payment rates automatically

Answer: (A)

MACRA introduced the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) for physicians, along with a bonus path for participation in eligible Alternative Payment Models (APMs). Under MIPS, Medicare Part B payments are adjusted based on a physician’s composite score across four performance categories, which can yield positive or negative payment adjustments each year. At the same time, MACRA creates a separate incentive for clinicians who participate in eligible APMs, offering a bonus payment to encourage transition toward value-based care. This combination—MIPS with a bonus for eligible APM participation—best fits what MACRA introduced for physicians. The other statements don’t align with MACRA’s structure: there isn’t a universal capitation system, APMs weren’t banned, and payments aren’t automatically reduced across the board.