While CMS proposed removing 258 recently added procedures from the ASC-payable list in its 2022 proposed payment rule, another policy change would add some procedures and improve payment for hundreds of others in the outpatient setting.

If finalized, the proposed CMS 2022 Hospital Outpatient Payment Prospective System and ASC Payment System rule may have lasting ramifications for ASCs and the healthcare system.

An Arizona ASC will have to revamp its complaint against Cigna to recover $5.6 million by next month, or it will be dismissed entirely.

ASCs have long struggled to secure reimbursements — with CMS' proposal to remove 258 procedures from the ASC payable list, leaders are concerned that securing payment could become even more challenging. 

Mark Reinford predicts consolidation amongst big payers and consolidation in fee schedules in the payer market in the next five years. 

ASCs often can struggle to leverage payer contracts in comparison to larger hospitals and health systems. 

ASCs can often offer higher-quality care at lower rates, making it a prime location for direct contracting. 

The proposed 2022 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System and ASC Payment System would remove 258 procedures from the ASC payable list if finalized later this year.

CMS issued the 2022 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System and ASC Payment System proposed rule July 19, which includes some big updates for ASCs.

CMS proposed reversing some of the policy changes ASC executives celebrated last year.

As higher-acuity procedures move outpatient, independent ASCs could have difficulty securing reimbursements. 

For Andrew Lovewell, the success of the ASC industry hinges on presurgery patient optimization and knowing which cases to take on. 

CMS issued the 2022 Physician Fee Schedule proposal July 13, which will lower physician pay next year if it goes into effect without changes.

The healthcare industry is buzzing about a July 6 article in the Wall Street Journal reporting some hospitals charge the highest rates possible for uninsured and cash-pay patients while providing discounts to insurance companies. How do surgery centers structure payments for cash-pay patients?

CMS forged ahead July 1 with a prior authorization requirement for cervical fusion procedures despite protest from several organizations.

The challenge of covering implant costs and keeping up with payer regulations makes maintaining profitability tricky for many independent ASCs.

Aetna began requiring that healthcare providers get preapproval for all cataract surgeries July 1.

CMS is taking on surprise billing with a proposed final rule released July 2.

Chesterfield, Mo.-based National Medical Billing Services, a revenue cycle management company focused on ASCs, opened a new facility in Osage Beach, Mo.

When whistleblowers file lawsuits, they stand to receive a portion of the proceeds from a settlement or financial recovery, which can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars.