Rich Almeida
Rich Almeida, Firely's VP of Product Strategy & Compliance, is a seasoned software developer with a two-decade career in healthtech. His expertise lies in quality measure and interoperability product development. Currently, he leads the implementation of CMS0057-P workflows and oversees Firely Server's quality measure engine for HEDIS/CMS using the .NET CQL SDK.
dQMs don’t cost more, waiting does
The most common reaction to Digital Quality Measures (dQMs) is a mix of curiosity and skepticism.…
From eCQM to dQM: Three shifts leaders need to understand
After two decades implementing quality measures across CMS programs, HEDIS, and The Joint Commission, I can…
CMS-0057-F decoded: Must-have APIs vs. nice-to-have IGs for 2026–2027
The CMS-0057-F Interoperability & Prior Authorization Final Rule is in effect, and the clock is ticking.…
HTI-1 Ruling and FHIR Compliance: Key Deadlines and Impacts
The HTI-1 ruling introduces transformative changes for healthcare interoperability, enhancing transparency and access to electronic health…
How CQL is transforming healthcare
Quality measures are essential for delivering timely, evidence-based patient care. However, traditional methods of implementing and…
Understanding the Prior Authorization API: Requirements, deadlines, benefits and trends
Updated February 27, 2026 Prior authorization is a critical tool for managing healthcare costs and care…
Understanding the Payer-to-Payer API: Requirements, deadlines, benefits and trends
Updated February 10, 2026 When patients in the U.S. switch health plans, they often face disruptions…
Understanding the Provider Directory API: Requirements, deadlines, benefits and trends
Updated February 4, 2026 Keeping provider network information accurate and accessible was a challenge for many…
Understanding the Provider Access API: Requirements, deadlines, benefits and trends
Updated February 18, 2026 The US healthcare industry is on the cusp of a transformation, and…
Understanding the Patient Access API: Requirements, deadlines, benefits and trends
Updated February 27, 2026 Patients increasingly expect to use apps to view, download, and share their…
CMS-0057-F has landed. But what does it mean for your FHIR roadmap?
On 17 January, after months of industry speculation, CMS released the much-anticipated Interoperability and Prior Authorization…