Take the Next Steps with EQIP

Text reads Maryland Episode Quality Improvement Program with a Maryland state map in the top right. The bottom has a pattern of red, orange, and brown plus signs fading upward.

Thank you to everyone who joined MCMS and the MedChi EQIP Team for our recent webinar, "Take the Next Step with EQIP." The session provided an overview of Maryland's Episode Quality Improvement Program, a voluntary Medicare Advanced Alternative Payment Model (AAPM) that offers participating practices an opportunity to engage in value-based care while qualifying for important Medicare incentives.

Presenter Olivia Simon, EQIP Practice Transformation Specialist, reviewed how EQIP works, the eligibility requirements, quality measures, performance evaluation, and the enrollment process. Attendees also heard from MCMS member Dr. Marc Gruner, who shared his experience with EQIP and went over the benefits of EQIP participation for his practice.

Why consider EQIP?

EQIP offers Maryland physicians the opportunity to participate in an Advanced Alternative Payment Model (AAPM), potentially earn Qualifying APM Participant (QP) status, become exempt from MIPS reporting requirements, and benefit from APM Medicare payment updates. Participants may also qualify for lump-sum incentive payments based on savings generated. Performance is evaluated using Medicare fee-for-service claims data, minimizing additional reporting burden.

If you were unable to attend—or would like to revisit the information—the webinar recording and presentation slides are available below.

Next Steps for Interested Practices

1. Complete the Pre-Enrollment Form
All new EQIP Entities must complete the Pre-Enrollment Form in order to gain access to the official EQIP application. The deadline to submit the form is August 7, 2026.

2. Submit a Request for Baseline Volume Report (optional but highly encouraged!)
This report is used to determine your opportunity to enroll in EQIP. It will share which episode(s) you are eligible to participate in.

3. Complete Official EQIP Application
All entities are required to complete the official enrollment application within the EQIP Portal during the enrollment period: June 29 through August 21, 2026.

For questions and more information, please contact the EQIP team at MedChiEQIP@medchi.org.

Posted in Practice Management, Business of Medicine