First Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule Since SGR Repeal

by  Wyn Staheli, Director of Research
August 19th, 2015

Even though the SGR has been repealed, providers still need to be aware of annual fee revisions by CMS. On July 8, 2015, CMS announced their first proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MFPS) since the SGR repeal. As in years past, there will continue to be reviews of the Relative Value Units and mis-valued codes.

Interestingly, there is a request for input on the new payment system which effectively replaces the SGR. CMS stated, "In the proposed CY 2016 Physician Fee Schedule rule, CMS is also seeking comment from the public on implementation of certain provisions of the MACRA, including  the new Merit-based Incentive payment system (MIPS). This is part of a broader effort at the Department to move the Medicare program to a health care system focused on the delivery of quality care and value."

This new MIPS system could bring significant changes to the payment system. Watch for further announcements from CMS. In the meantime, be sure you are improving your quality measures and be sure your practice is successfully participating in PQRS and EHR.

References:

• CMS Proposed Rule
• MIPS Information by Medscape