The 2026 Rate Announcement released on 4/7/25 included a decision from CMS not to retire the CMR completion rate measure. While CMS acknowledged stakeholder feedback opposing retirement without an outcomes-based replacement, they confirmed the measure will remain on the display page due to the expanded MTM eligibility requirements. This FAQ provides clarification on the future status of the measure, expectations for measurement years 2025 and 2026, the rulemaking process for any changes, and the implications if the measure is reactivated in Star Ratings.
Q: Where can I find the rate announcement?
A: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/2026-announcement.pdf
Q: Is the CMR Completion Rate going to be retired?
A: CMS did not state that the CMR completion rate would be retired at this time. CMS reiterated that: the majority of commenters were opposed to retirement until CMS adopts an outcomes-based MTM measure as a replacement.
Q: What does this mean for the CMR Completion rate?
A: CMS is required to move the CMR completion rate measure to the display page for a minimum of 2 years because of the substantive changes created by the expansion of MTM program eligibility. Therefore, the CMR completion rate will remain on the display page for measurement in the year 2025 and 2026 at a minimum. Further changes will be made through the rulemaking process.
Q: How would changes to the CMR Completion Rate measure be handled by CMS?
A: CMS stated in the Rate Announcement that: Any changes to the measure set would need to be proposed and finalized through the rulemaking process. This comment signals that changes would be handled through the standard rulemaking process which includes a proposal, comment period, and finalization. This is contrary to other rulemaking tools that CMS can leverage to make immediate changes to the Medicare program.
Q: Will CMR completion rate return as an active measure?
A: At this point it is to be determined if or when the CMR completion rate will return as an active measure. CMS has indicated that the CMR completion rate measure may remain in place until an outcomes-based MTM measure is formally adopted.
Q: What would happen to previous cutpoints if the CMR completion rate measure was returned as an active measure in the Star Ratings program?
A: If the CMR completion rate was re-activated into the Star Ratings program, CMS would trigger a recalculation of cutpoints. Previous cutpoints would have no bearing on the new cutpoints.
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