CMS authorized validation tools like SEVT or PSVA may display error messages in a different order depending on technical implementation. The end user should expect that an error code will be displayed according to the technical designs of that application.

Suggested that a new section be added to IG or Appendix to indicate processing order for applications. In particular, the following should be added for SEVT:

Special Considerations:
In 2016, the PQRS Submissions Engine Validation Tool will validate EP submitted files in phases in order to more accurately describe error and warning messages as either violating HL7 specifications, 2016 CMS Implementation Guide specifications, or 2016 PQRS specific rules. Thus, errors and warnings will be generated according to the following hierarchy:

1. HL7 Schema validation errors
2. 2016 CMS Implementation Guide errors (CONF: constraints)
3. 2016 CMS Implementation Guide warnings
4. 2016 PQRS specific rules errors (PQRS_ errors)
5. 2016 PQRS specific rules warnings

Update the 2016 CMS IG or the Appendix with a "Special Considerations" section