CMS Medicare Part D Star Ratings Measure

Polypharmacy (POLY-ACH): Use of Multiple Anticholinergic Medications in Older Adults

The CMS Medicare Part D Star ratings measure, Polypharmacy (POLY-ACH), evaluates the percentage of patients age 65 years or older who concurrently use two or more unique anticholinergic medications for 30 cumulative days or more during the calendar year. 

This is an inverse measure, meaning lower rates indicate better performance, and safer prescribing. Patients age 65 years or older with concurrent use of two or more unique anticholinergic medications qualify for this measure.

The goal is to ensure that therapy is staggered and if two anticholinergics must be used, their overlapping prescription supply does not exceed 29 cumulative days during a calendar year. 

We created a tip sheet for providers to learn more about this measure’s goals and potential risks, and see examples of commonly prescribed anticholinergic medications.