Physician groups slam proposed imaging cuts, tighter rules on wellness visits

Why This Topic Matters

The article helps healthcare billing and compliance teams understand which Medicare payment and reporting proposals may affect practice revenue, workflow, and documentation requirements. It is useful for readers monitoring physician fee schedule changes and the positions professional groups are taking before final rulemaking.

Article Sections

1. 2012 proposed fee schedule

   Overview of the proposed CMS physician fee schedule and the general concerns raised by professional organizations. The section frames the policy areas discussed throughout the article.

2. Imaging payment reductions

   Discussion of proposed Medicare payment changes affecting advanced imaging services and the reactions of physician organizations. The section focuses on the broader reimbursement impact and policy objections.

3. Meaningful use, e-prescribing, and PQRS alignment

   Coverage of how electronic health record incentives are proposed to interact with electronic prescribing and quality reporting programs. The section addresses program coordination and reporting alignment.

4. E-prescribing and PQRS reporting periods and penalties

   Summary of concerns about timing differences between reporting periods and penalty application for federal reporting programs. The section addresses how proposed schedules could affect future payment adjustments.

5. Annual wellness visit requirements

   Discussion of proposed annual wellness visit expectations and related documentation or service-delivery questions. The section covers provider concerns about how the visit is structured.

6. Three-day rule for hospital-run practices

   Explanation of the proposed billing change affecting hospital-owned or hospital-operated practices when patients are admitted shortly after a visit. The section addresses the anticipated administrative and reimbursement impact.