No surprises, some disappointments, in ASC proposed rule

Why This Topic Matters

Readers who code, bill, or manage ophthalmic ASC services need to know how CMS’s proposed payment updates may affect reimbursement and operational planning. The article also highlights a policy proposal related to a device-intensive procedure and a quality reporting deferral that could affect ASC payment and compliance considerations.

Article Sections

1. CMS proposed ASC payment rule for 2010

   Overview of the proposed Medicare ASC payment update and the general payment methodology context. Includes the article’s discussion of the rule’s timing and its relevance to ambulatory surgery centers.

2. Additional policy items in the proposed rule

   Summary of other proposed ASC policy changes mentioned alongside payment updates. Covers quality reporting timing and a proposal affecting a device-intensive procedure.

3. ASC payments for ophthalmic services

   A comparison table of selected ophthalmic ASC procedures and proposed payment amounts. The section is focused on reimbursement changes for commonly performed eye-related services.