EVALUATION & MANAGEMENT: Beware--Gain To E/M Codes Means Loss To Most Other Codes

Why This Topic Matters

Proposed RVU shifts can change reimbursement patterns across commonly billed professional services, so readers need to know which service categories are positioned for increases, which are not, and how budget neutrality may affect other codes. The article also highlights practice expense methodology changes that may influence procedure valuation.

Article Sections

1. Higher-level E/M codes are biggest winners

   Overview of proposed work RVU changes for evaluation and management services and related service categories. The section compares which broad visit and care categories are expected to change under the proposal.

2. 10-percent cut

   Discussion of the proposed budget-neutral reduction applied across physician work RVUs and the intended purpose of the adjustment. The section also notes that further changes may be issued later.

3. Practice expense RVUs

   Summary of the proposed shift in practice expense RVU methodology and its potential effect on procedures. The section mentions concerns raised by a practice manager about the impact of the change.