The proposed cut is intended to offset the effect of coding changes in the classification of patients. CMS claims the coding changes have caused hospitals to receive increased reimbursement. The letter, however, asserts that the increased payments could be a result of the hospitals treating truly sicker patients as healthier patients are increasingly treated by outpatient departments. The senators argue that if cuts are made without considering severity, the move could “adversely affect [hospitals’] ability to care for patients and serve their communities,” according to the report.
The letter by the senators follows one sent by more than 240 members of the House last week.
Read the AHA News Now report on Medicare payment cuts.
Read more about Medicare payments to hospitals.
– House Urges CMS to Reconsider 2.9% Payment Cut to Hospitals in FY 2011
– Proposed Medicare Cut for Next Year Undermines Hospitals’ Position Under Health Reform
– MedPAC Recommends ASC Payment Increase of 0.6 Percent, Hospital Payment Increase in Line With Market Basket Index
