Implementation of policy changes dominate 2013 proposed fee schedule

Why This Topic Matters

The proposal touches multiple operational areas that can affect documentation, claims submission, reimbursement, and compliance. Readers can use this article to gauge which Medicare policy changes may be relevant to their specialties or billing workflows.

Article Sections

1. Proposed fee schedule overview

   Introduces the proposed Medicare physician fee schedule and frames the article as a policy-focused update. It also places the proposal in the context of broader Medicare priorities.

2. Payment and quality program changes

   Summarizes proposed changes affecting payment methodology and quality reporting programs. The section discusses general alignment efforts and reporting-related updates.

3. Therapy reporting requirements

   Covers a proposed therapy outcomes data collection approach involving claim reporting and new functional limitation reporting elements. It explains the timing and implementation framework discussed in the article.

4. DME face-to-face encounter requirements

   Describes proposed documentation and encounter requirements tied to durable medical equipment orders. The section also notes the related policy framework and payment-related proposal mentioned by CMS.

5. Preventive services via telehealth

   Outlines proposed Medicare coverage of certain preventive services delivered through telehealth. The section identifies the broad categories of services discussed in the rule.

6. CRNA chronic pain management services

   Summarizes a proposed policy change affecting certified registered nurse anesthetists and chronic pain management coverage. It focuses on the scope-of-service issue described in the article.

7. Mobile X-ray ordering privileges

   Explains proposed expansion of ordering privileges for mobile X-ray services and the related oversight concerns. The section also notes the involvement of multiple provider types and monitoring considerations.