Despite a concurrent increase of 45.5% in physician services to each patient, reimbursements were down and varied widely by physician specialty (-57.6% for cardiac surgery to +189.1% for pain management).
On the flipside, nonphysician practitioners’ reimbursement per Medicare patient increased more than threefold over the same period, according to an April 26 press release.
The research found that across all medical providers and suppliers, payments per beneficiary increased 9.9%, payments to nonphysician practitioners increased 206.5%, payments to limited-license physicians increased 16.3%, and payment to medical suppliers increased 44.4%.
While some physician specialties experienced reimbursement growth, 16 experienced reimbursement declines. Of these, 13 experienced reimbursement declines despite higher volumes per beneficiary. These included psychiatrists, cardiologists, urologists, OB-GYN, internal medicine, internists, pulmonologists, radiologists, gastroenterologists and anesthesiologists.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.