MedPAC also included a draft recommendation that would equalize Medicare payment rates for non-emergency evaluation and management services between hospital outpatient departments and physician offices. According to MedPAC’s presentation, the shift of services from a freestanding practice to an HOPD has resulted from hospitals boosting efforts in their employment of physicians. However, the American Hospital Association has argued that the E/M payment reduction would stifle hospitals that already treat more severe outpatient cases.
“We are extremely disappointed in this recommendation that would result in a 3.0 percent cut to outpatient departments, whose Medicare margins were already negative 9.6 percent in 2010,” said AHA Vice President for Policy Don May in an AHA News Now report.
MedPAC’s next meeting will take place Jan. 12-13, 2012, and will focus on public comments regarding the draft recommendations.
Related Articles on Hospital Medicare Payments:
AHA Opposes MedPAC’s Proposal to Equalize E/M Medicare Payment Rates
House Republicans Offer Bill That Includes Medicare “Doc Fix”
Medicare Prepayments for Heart, Orthopedic Procedures Limited to Florida
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
