On February 21, Change Healthcare experienced a cybersecurity attack that resulted in disruptions in claims processing, delayed prior authorization requests, and other major impacts on physician practices. The CAP has continually monitored the impact the attack has had on pathology practices and laboratories and continues to share resources to assist pathologists managing the fallout. Most recently, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) compiled information, resources, and tools from health plans and payers for providers in need of assistance – find that document online here. The following are additional resources to help pathologists navigate these ongoing issues:

Change Healthcare

Change Healthcare has created a website with resources that include:

• Funding relief for providers
• An impacted applications status dashboard including updates for Chief Information Security Officers (CISO) and other stakeholders about products and services, as well as uptime and support availability
• Help with third-party documentation
• Client services assistance
• Up-to-date reconnection status information
• Frequently Asked Questions

MIPS Exception

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has reopened applications for Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances exceptions for submission of 2023 MIPS data. The applications will be open until the end of an extended data submission period: April 15, 2024, at 8 PM ET. The applications will be accepted at the QPP website but only for disruptions related to the Change Healthcare cyberattack. Applications for other reasons will not be accepted.

HHS/CMS Payments

On March 5, the HHS and the CMS said they would help providers and hospitals negatively impacted by the Change Healthcare cyberattack. To help address cash flow and related problems, the HHS and CMS said they would provide accelerated and advance payments in amounts representative of up to thirty days (30) of claims payments to eligible providers and suppliers. Read more.

AMA Information

The American Medical Association (AMA) has a dedicated website with updates, additional resources, and advocacy efforts around this issue.

The CAP will continue to provide updates and resources as the issue progresses.