Four Final Rules Affecting CMS Payments for 2018

Why This Topic Matters

These annual CMS payment and quality rules can change reimbursement, reporting expectations, and participation requirements across multiple care settings. Knowing which programs are affected helps organizations review the full rule text and prepare for operational and compliance updates.

Article Sections

1. Physician Fee Schedule

   Overview of the physician payment rule and related policy updates affecting Medicare payment, reporting, and service categories. The section summarizes broad changes and areas of ongoing CMS attention.

2. Hospital OPPS and ASC Payment System and Quality Reporting Programs

   Summary of the hospital outpatient and ambulatory surgery payment rule, including payment updates and quality reporting program topics. The section also notes several areas addressed in the final rule for these settings.

3. HHAs: Payment Changes

   Discussion of the home health agency payment update for 2018 and related policy changes. The section covers the main payment and program areas affected.

4. Quality Payment Program Rule for Year 2

   Summary of the second-year Quality Payment Program rule, including MIPS-related updates and participation flexibilities. The section outlines the general categories of transition-year policy changes.