News You Can Use: Dig Deep in the 2022 MPFS Final Rule Mixed Bag

Why This Topic Matters

The final rule contains multiple operational changes that can affect Medicare claim processing, documentation practices, and compliance workflows across physician and facility settings. Readers in coding, billing, and revenue cycle roles can use it to understand which policy areas changed for 2022 and where more detailed review may be needed.

Article Sections

1. Watch the Conversion Factor Go Down in 2022

   Discusses the 2022 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule conversion factor and the broader payment context surrounding the final rule. It also notes public and organizational responses to the update.

2. Find Clarification in Split/Shared Rules

   Covers CMS guidance on split/shared evaluation and management services, including general policy updates, documentation themes, and timing-related changes. It also addresses how these updates relate to E/M services versus procedures.

3. Stay Abreast of Telehealth Regulation Evolution

   Summarizes telehealth-related changes in the final rule, including continued monitoring of certain temporary telehealth categories and other service categories reviewed by CMS. It also mentions behavioral health telehealth updates and related telecommunication provisions.

4. CMS Finalizes CAA Mandate for PA Services

   Describes Medicare billing policy changes affecting physician assistants under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021. The section focuses on general billing and payment flexibilities finalized for 2022.

5. Don’t Miss the Teaching Physician Payment Update

   Reviews revised teaching physician policy language tied to office and outpatient evaluation and management services. It highlights the relationship between resident involvement, physician participation, and Medicare payment policy.