The bill proposes to take money from private insurers to fulfill the payment increase.
Physician Hospitals of America report that, unlike other healthcare package bills proposed recently (such as the children’s health insurance and mental health parity bills), this bill does not contain any provisions regarding physician-ownership of specialty hospitals.
If passed, the increase would take effect in 2009; the cut had been scheduled for July 1 as part of a budget-balancing effort. Congress has over the past several years generally made last-minute interventions to prevent such cuts in physician Medicare payments. The Associated Press reports that the proposed 1.1 percent reimbursement increase would cost about $9 billion over five years.
Download a summary version (PDF) and full version (PDF) of the bill.
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.