October 20, 2026
Effective October 1, 2026, the ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes used to report plantar fasciitis have changed. The familiar diagnosis code M72.2 is no longer valid for billing purposes for dates of service beginning October 1, 2026, and has been replaced by more specific diagnosis codes.
This change also has an important impact on MIPS quality reporting for podiatrists participating in the Heel Pain Treatment Outcomes for Adults measure (REGCLR1).
- Understanding IA_PSPA_7: Using QCDR Data for Ongoing Practice Improvement MIPS reporting is often viewed as something a practice completes at the end of the year: collect the data, calculate the results and submit the information to CMS. But MIPS data can be much more useful when physicians can see their performance during the performance year, while there is still time to make improvements. That is the concept behind IA_PSPA_7 — Use of QCDR Data for Ongoing Practice Assessment and Improvements. For Podiatrists participating with Registry Clearinghouse, this Improvement Activity is particularly relevant because Registry Clearinghouse receives updated clinical data on a regular basis, allowing Podiatrists to monitor their MIPS performance throughout the year. Instead of simply reporting what happened after the year is over, the data can be used to identify opportunities for improvement, make changes and then monitor whether those changes are working.
Have You Registered for Your 2026 MVP?
If you're planning to report a MVP this year, there's one easy step that can derail your MIPS reporting if it's overlooked: CMS requires a separate MVP registration. Many clinicians assume that participating with a qualified registry is enough, but without completing MVP registration through the Quality Payment Program (QPP) portal, you cannot report the MVP.
The Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) Value Pathways (MVPs) registration window is open for the 2026 performance year. Individuals, groups, subgroups, and Alternative Payment Model (APM) Entities that wish to report an MVP can register until November 30, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET.
To register, you’ll sign in to the QPP website with your HCQIS Access and Roles Profile (HARP) account.
What Are the SAFER Guides?
The SAFER Guides are a set of self-assessment tools designed to help healthcare organizations evaluate and improve the safety and effectiveness of their EHR systems. They focus on identifying risks, preventing errors, and ensuring that technology supports—rather than hinders—clinical decision-making.
Key SAFER Guide Domains