Prepare to follow new self-disclosure rules for MRI, CT and ultrasound

Why This Topic Matters

The topic is important because it affects how physician groups communicate imaging referral options to Medicare patients and how they manage compliance with federal self-disclosure and referral rules. Practices that own imaging equipment or refer patients for imaging need to understand the change and prepare appropriate written notices or office workflows.

Article Sections

1. Overview of the new disclosure requirement

   Introduces the new patient-notice obligation for certain imaging referrals and explains the general compliance concern for physician practices.

2. Statutory basis and effective date

   Summarizes the federal law provision discussed in the article and notes the timing of when it applies.

3. Relationship to Stark law and in-office ancillary services

   Explains how the article frames the disclosure change in relation to existing physician self-referral rules and ancillary service arrangements.

4. Practical compliance approaches for practices

   Describes broad office-process options being considered to meet the disclosure requirement, including written notices and patient-facing communication methods.

5. Attorney guidance and next steps

   Shares general commentary about anticipated guidance and the need for practices to prepare documentation and internal procedures.