26-721 Updates to Quality Incentive Pool and Directed Payment Programs
Date: 05/28/26
QIP data will be reported by Health Net starting June 2026
New data sharing and reporting requirements will change how quality performance data is reported for Medi‑Cal quality incentive and directed payment programs. These updates affect Quality Incentive Pool (QIP) programs and how provider‑level quality data is submitted and supported.
To support this change, updates have been made to QIP reporting processes and dedicated contact inboxes have been established for directed payment programs.
Change to QIP data reporting – effective June 2026
Currently, hospitals calculate and submit their own QIP performance rates. Beginning in June 2026, this process will change.
Starting at that time, Health Net will collect and report QIP performance data on behalf of physicians, practitioners and other providers. This updated approach is intended to:
- Improve data consistency and accuracy.
- Simplify reporting requirements.
- Reduce administrative burden for physicians, practitioners and other providers.
No action is required at this time. Additional details will be shared closer to implementation.
Dedicated support for directed payment programs
Each incentive program now has a dedicated contact email to ensure questions are routed to the appropriate team. Physicians, practitioners and other providers should use the applicable contact below for program‑specific support or guidance.
Questions or need more information
For details and requirements, refer to the California Department of Health Care Services All Plan Letter 25-015 (PDF).
For general questions about this change, contact Health Net Medi-Cal Provider Services Center at 800-675-6110.
This information applies to Physicians, Practitioners, Participating Physician Groups (PPGs), Hospitals, Ancillary Providers, Community Supports (CS) Providers, Enhanced Care Management (ECM) Providers, and Behavioral Health Providers.
For Medi-Cal, this information applies to Amador, Calaveras, Inyo, Los Angeles, Mono, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare and Tuolumne counties.