As part of the transition to the Hospice Outcomes and Patient Evaluation (HOPE) assessment tool, effective October 1, 2025, hospice providers will be required to submit data to the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES), a change from the current Hospice Item Set (HIS) process.
In a recent webinar, Axxess Senior Director of Clinical and Professional Services, Raianne Melton, Axxess Senior Implementation Consultant, Rosena Clarke-Turner, and Axxess Director of Hospice Sales, Wendy Amerson, discussed strategies for successfully navigating the system change to ensure compliance.
Transitioning to iQIES
At the beginning of the session, the panelists discussed the rationale behind the transition to iQIES, noting that the move is part of Medicare’s larger plan to provide cloud-based reporting tools. They emphasized that while transitioning to a new system can present challenges, the goal is to provide an enhanced submission experience for users.
Clarke-Turner outlined the process for transitioning to iQIES, noting that providers will need to designate at least one Provider Security Official (PSO) by September 10, 2025, to avoid delays or transition issues. This person will be responsible for managing user access requests for the organization.
PSOs and other users must have accounts in the HCQIS Access Roles and Profile (HARP) identity management portal to access iQIES. This includes setting up multi-factor authentication and completing identity verification.
“It is extremely critical for the Provider Security Officials to be designated now,” Clarke-Turner said. “All the other users in your organization also need to be enrolled in HARP for the remote identity proofing to allow access into iQIES.”
The panelists emphasized the importance of preparing for the transition early and ensuring that user credentials are successfully transferred. This is crucial to avoid the need for manual identity verification, which can lead to submission delays and negatively impact operations.
“If these things are not in place, it’s going to lead to delays in submitting your data timely and accurately,” Clarke-Turner said.
The group also noted that providers should be aware that the current data submission system, QIES, will not be phased out immediately on October 1. Providers must continue to update the current system to ensure a smooth transition and maintain compliance.
Strategies for Success
In addressing best practices for the transition to iQIES and the overall transition to HOPE, the group noted that providers should look at Medicare’s training resources and the step-by-step process provided by HARP.
Providers should also track their current completion and submission dates to prepare for HOPE changes. Amerson added to that sentiment, noting that providers should be actively monitoring their final validation and timeliness compliance reports to remain compliant and organized.
The group recommended that providers identify current HIS pain points to anticipate potential issues with HOPE and develop a plan to address these specific challenges by the end of the year.
Melton also emphasized that leaders should consider the strengths and specific skillsets of their team members when selecting individuals to serve as PSOs.
“Providers need to look at people who really thrive in the details and who are highly engaged,” Melton said. “They know why it matters, they know the impact it’s going to have on the agency. It’s so important.”
They concluded the discussion by emphasizing the importance of being proactive about changes and creating a clear action plan.
“The echoing theme is to be proactive, start doing things earlier,” Amerson said. “Don’t wait.”
To learn more about how your organization can prepare for HOPE, visit the HOPE resource page here.