Medicare to spend up to $50 billion on physician services in 2000

Why This Topic Matters

Medicare physician fee updates can affect practice revenue and future payment policy. The article highlights a disputed payment methodology that could influence updates beyond 2000 and explains why medical organizations are pressing for legislative and administrative changes.

Article Sections

1. Medicare physician services spending outlook

   Summarizes the fiscal year 2000 spending projection for physician services and the expected effect on payment updates.

2. Sustainable growth rate controversy

   Reviews the debate over the growth target methodology and concerns about forecast accuracy and authority to revise projections.

3. Medical group and advisory concerns

   Describes positions taken by physician organizations and advisory bodies regarding the policy framework and its impact on future updates.

4. HCFA perspective and legislative response

   Outlines the agency’s view of the issue and references congressional efforts to address the underlying Medicare payment rules.