2011 conversion factor falls, but RVU changes prop up your payments

Why This Topic Matters

It helps readers interpret Medicare payment fluctuations for 2011 and understand the broader fee schedule changes that influenced reimbursement across many commonly reported services.

Article Sections

1. Conversion factor and overall 2011 payment impact

   Introduces the 2011 Medicare conversion factor and explains the overall payment environment for the year. Summarizes why many services did not follow the same direction as the conversion factor change alone might suggest.

2. RVU adjustments and CMS implementation timing

   Discusses the role of relative value unit adjustments in the Medicare physician fee schedule and notes CMS timing for implementing the updates. Mentions the broader fee schedule rescaling context and budget neutrality considerations.

3. Examples of code-specific payment changes

   Presents selected service examples showing mixed payment effects under the revised fee schedule. Covers several specialties and service categories, including procedures, imaging, office visits, and hospital services.

4. Key payment changes for 2011

   Provides a table of code-level 2010 and 2011 payment comparisons with associated RVU changes. The table spans multiple services and shows how payment amounts shifted across different clinical areas.