Reader Questions: Base Total RVU Calculations on 3 Details

Why This Topic Matters

Choosing the correct RVU total is important because site of service can affect the reimbursement amount for the same service. The article helps readers understand the structure of the fee schedule so they can evaluate the payment basis for a code without confusing facility and non-facility values.

Article Sections

1. Question

   Introduces the reader’s reimbursement question and the general context of Medicare fee schedule RVU selection.

2. Answer

   Provides a broad explanation of how Physician Fee Schedule values vary by setting and what components contribute to the totals.

3. How it works

   Describes the major RVU components and the role of site of service in the overall calculation framework.

4. Non-facility calculations

   Summarizes the non-facility RVU calculation workflow and the fee schedule columns referenced in that process.

5. Example

   Illustrates the calculation approach using a sample evaluation and management visit and the 2009 conversion factor.