CMS introduces a SDOH assessment, revives complexity of care add-on

Why This Topic Matters

The article covers proposed CMS policy changes that could affect documentation, reporting, and reimbursement for common outpatient visits and care coordination activities. It is useful for teams tracking Medicare payment rules and E/M-related coding updates.

Article Sections

1. New SDOH assessment would boost patient care

   Discusses CMS’s proposed new social determinants of health assessment service and the general requirements tied to its use. Also covers telehealth inclusion and optional use with certain visit types.

2. An almost stand-alone code

   Explains the proposed reporting relationship between the new assessment and evaluation and management visits. Includes general discussion of same-date service requirements and payment handling in different visit settings.

3. Complexity of care add-on returns to active status

   Summarizes CMS’s proposed status change for an existing complexity-related add-on service and notes the broader policy context surrounding the proposal. Also mentions commentary from professional organizations.