1. CMS released its Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule for 2021 Aug. 3, which could result in drastic cuts for surgeons across the board. If approved, the conversion factor would drop from $36.09 to $32.26.
2. ASCs engaging in “information blocking” practices could be subject to penalties under a new rule from the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, according to the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association.
3. New Jersey’s health department modified COVID-19 testing rules for ASCs resuming elective surgeries and invasive diagnostic procedures.
4. The California state legislature is considering a bill that would impose new restrictions on healthcare-related merger and acquisition activity.
5. HHS extended the timeline for publishing the final rule clarifying physician self-referral regulations. The agency had planned to issue the final rule in August 2020 but has extended the timeline for issuing a final rule to Aug. 31, 2021.
More articles on surgery centers:
ASC considers in-house alternative to ‘overwhelmed’ hospital testing center — 3 insights
425 surgery centers that received PPP funds of more than $150K by state
4 COVID-19 testing insights for ASCs
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.
