Oncology: 2 Hopes For Saving Drug Payments In 2005

Why This Topic Matters

The topic affects practice revenue, patient access, and coding-related reimbursement planning across multiple specialties. Readers need to understand the policy direction, the organizations involved, and the general categories of coding changes under consideration.

Article Sections

1. Impact of scheduled drug payment cuts

   Discusses the anticipated effect of Medicare drug payment reductions on oncology and other specialties, including differing impacts by provider type and practice mix.

2. Senate bill and possible coding changes

   Summarizes proposed legislative relief and the discussion among CMS, physician organizations, and specialty groups about possible adjustments to drug administration payment policies and related coding.

3. Medicare drug payment methodology changes

   Reviews the shift in Medicare payment methodology for Part B drugs, including the move away from prior pricing methods and the general framework for 2005 and later years.