In that nine-year time period, Medicare reimbursements for 23 selected spine procedures fell between 15 percent and 37 percent.
For example, reimbursement for “anterior instrumentation; 8 or more vertebral segments” (CPT 22847) fell from $1,089.17 (in 2008 dollars) to $806.45, down 26 percent.
Reimbursement for “application of intervertebral biomechanical devices” (CPT 22851) dropped from $574.78 (in 2008 dollars) to $393.13, down 32 percent.
In addition, Medicare now requires physicians to provide 90 days of post-operative care for no additional reimbursement, Mr. Binder reports.
To read the full list of spine procedures with falling reimbursements go to Jeffrey Binder’s blog.
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.