CMS delays 21% reduction
(June 8, 2010)
We recently learned that Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has delayed the planned 21.2% physician payment reduction until May 31, 2010 or after. CMS has implemented an
interim physician fee schedule for Medicare Advantage pre-dated to Jan. 1, 2010.
Summary of what we know today:
- CMS has not adjusted the conversion factor. The 2009 conversion factor remains in place. However, CMS implemented the 2010 Relative Value Units (RVU) to this factor.
- CMS has removed payment for consultation codes from their fee schedule as previously communicated. This change was effective Jan. 1, 2010.
- We will also eliminate payment for consultation codes effective May 31, 2010 for our Medicare Advantage plans.
We stand by our commitment to providers and will continue to mirror CMS payments. We have implemented the interim fee schedule effective May 1, 2010.
We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.
