NPP Report: NPP groups weigh in on proposed 2011 fee schedule

Why This Topic Matters

The article helps readers understand which proposed Medicare payment changes drew support or criticism from NPP advocacy groups and why those changes could affect access, documentation, workflow, and reimbursement for NPP services.

Article Sections

1. CMS proposed 2011 Physician Fee Schedule overview

   Introduces the overall fee schedule proposal and notes that two NPP organizations submitted official comments. It frames the policy areas discussed in the article.

2. Multiple procedure payment reduction concerns

   Summarizes objections to a proposed payment policy affecting therapy services and describes the broader concern over how the change could affect service delivery.

3. Primary care bonus eligibility

   Covers comments about the proposed review period used to determine eligibility for a primary care bonus under Medicare payment policy. The discussion focuses on the timing of the eligibility review process.

4. Overlap between preventive visit requirements

   Discusses concerns about duplication between two Medicare preventive visit benefit structures and the need to reduce overlapping requirements.

5. Cognitive function screening language

   Addresses the request for clearer language in the annual wellness visit requirements related to cognitive function screening. The section focuses on the need for more explicit guidance.

6. Call to remove the therapy payment reduction proposal

   Highlights the recommendation to eliminate the proposed therapy payment reduction policy entirely. It presents the organizations' broader concerns about practice impact and beneficiary care.