December 2019

CMS Star Ratings Matter: CAHPS Survey Begins First Quarter of 2020

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) uses Star measures to rate Medicare Advantage and Part D programs. Star ratings are determined by several different measures, including the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) survey. The CAHPS survey evaluates how satisfied members are with their health plans and prescription drug services. Member satisfaction is impacted by experiences and interactions the member has with every part of their health plan, including you, the provider community. That’s why it’s so important for all of us to be focused on member satisfaction throughout the year.

Some of the important questions members are asked on the survey include:

• Have you had a flu shot since July 1 of the previous year?
• How often did you get an appointment to see a specialist as soon as you needed?
• How often did you see the person you came to see within 15 minutes of your appointment time?
• How often did you and your personal doctor talk about all the prescription medicines you are taking?
• How often did your personal doctor seem informed and up-to-date about the care you received from specialists?

The CAHPS survey is administered to a random sample of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois members from March through June 2020. Members will begin receiving their survey in just a few months, so you may want to encourage your patients to respond to the CAHPS survey if they are selected to participate.

This information is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the sound medical judgment of a doctor. Members are encouraged to talk to their doctor if they have any questions or concerns regarding their health.