Proposed fee schedule: Remember to comment - CMS to reconsider cataract surgery, drug screen codes

Why This Topic Matters

The article highlights CMS proposals that could affect payment, reporting volume, and comment strategy for multiple service lines. It helps readers track which parts of the fee schedule and laboratory policy process are under review and where further CMS updates are expected.

Article Sections

1. Comment period and fee schedule update timeline

   Introduces the 2016 physician fee schedule comment window and notes related CMS laboratory fee schedule timing. It also points readers to where additional public information is expected.

2. Anesthesia for cataract services

   Summarizes CMS interest in cataract surgery settings and the potential impact on anesthesia billing. The section discusses why this area is being reviewed and who may be affected.

3. Upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy

   Covers CMS’s review of payment policy for anesthesia services tied to gastrointestinal endoscopy. It explains that the agency is reconsidering certain procedure categories in light of utilization patterns.

4. Neurostimulator evaluation payments

   Describes CMS scrutiny of evaluation services associated with neurostimulator-related care. It notes that these services are being considered for payment review.

5. Drug screen code overhaul

   Discusses CMS’s proposal to replace the current drug screen coding structure with a simplified approach. The section focuses on the scope of the proposed change and its implications for Medicare and potentially other payers.

6. Submitting comments and monitoring CMS resources

   Provides general guidance on where comments may be submitted and where to watch for additional CMS updates. It also mentions related resource links referenced by the article.