5 Critical Lessons from Year One of Hybrid Measure Submissions

Reflecting on the healthcare industry’s first year of mandatory hybrid measure submissions, I’m reminded of a fundamental truth I’ve learned over my three decades in healthcare leadership: successful transformation requires technical excellence and operational wisdom. The transition to hybrid measures in 2024 has been more than just a regulatory requirement — it’s been a catalyst for meaningful change in how we approach quality reporting.

I’ve identified five critical insights that can help healthcare organizations comply with requirements and excel in their quality reporting journey.

1. The integration imperative: The most pressing lesson from early adoption has been the critical importance of seamless data integration. I’ve never seen a clearer example of how technical infrastructure directly impacts patient care quality metrics. When we merge clinical data with claims information, we’re not just checking a box but creating a more complete picture of patient care. I’ve observed that organizations needing help with this transition often focus too heavily on the technical aspects while overlooking the operational implications. Success requires a comprehensive strategy that aligns the technology and the workflows supporting it.
2. Beyond deadlines – strategic timeline management: The complexity of hybrid measure submissions demands more than calendar management — it requires strategic foresight. I can attest that timeline management in this context is about more than meeting deadlines; it’s about creating sustainable processes that align with an organization’s broader quality goals.
3. Infrastructure as a foundation for success: In my experience, I’ve learned that robust infrastructure is non-negotiable. With healthcare organizations facing a 92% cybersecurity attack rate, we must build secure and efficient systems. This isn’t just about having the right EHR system — it’s about creating an integrated technology ecosystem that supports quality reporting while protecting patient data.
4. The human element in risk adjustment: While much attention is paid to technical requirements, success in risk adjustment and population management comes down to human expertise. Understanding the nuances of different specialty cohort models — from surgery/gynecology to neurology — requires clinical knowledge and data analytics capabilities. This is where experienced healthcare leaders can make a significant impact by bridging the gap between clinical and technical requirements.
5. Continuous learning as a strategic advantage: Throughout my career, I’ve championed the importance of continuous education in healthcare. The transition to hybrid measures has reinforced this belief. Organizations that invest in ongoing education and resource utilization consistently outperform those that treat training as a one-time event.

Looking ahead: A strategic framework for success

I recommend healthcare organizations focus on three key areas:

1. Integration strategy – Develop a comprehensive approach that aligns technical capabilities with operational needs. This means looking beyond essential data integration to create workflows that support quality improvement.
2. Team empowerment – Invest in your people. The most sophisticated systems are only as effective as the teams operating them. Create clear communication channels and establish shared responsibility for data accuracy.
3. Sustainable infrastructure – Build technology frameworks that evolve with changing requirements while maintaining security and efficiency.

The path forward

As we continue to navigate this transition, I’m reminded that quality reporting isn’t just about meeting regulatory requirements — it’s about improving patient care. The organizations that will thrive are those that view hybrid measure submissions as an opportunity to enhance their overall quality management systems.

The lessons from this first year of implementation are clear — success requires a balanced approach that combines technical expertise with operational excellence. Healthcare organizations can turn these challenges into opportunities for enhanced patient care delivery by focusing on integration, strategic planning, and continuous improvement.

Remember, we’re not just managing metrics in healthcare — we’re improving lives. As we continue to adapt to these new requirements, let’s focus on what matters most: delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.

Photo: alphaspirit, Getty Images

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