As the fee schedule turns

Why This Topic Matters

The article helps readers understand whether the 2004 Medicare payment update and related fee schedule changes could affect reimbursement for commonly used surgical endoscopy services and whether the reported changes may be temporary or subject to correction.

Article Sections

1. Congressional reversal of the Medicare physician fee update

   This section summarizes the Medicare physician fee schedule update discussed in the article and the legislative action affecting physician payment levels for 2004 and 2005.

2. Unexpected payment increases for lower GI endoscopy services

   This section focuses on the reported fee schedule changes affecting several general surgery endoscopy services and the concern that the changes may not reflect intended valuations.

3. Questions about the fee schedule changes

   This section presents professional commentary on the apparent inconsistencies in the updated payment amounts and notes concerns about possible future correction by Medicare.