2019 OPPS proposed rule: CMS brings site-neutral payment policies to excepted locations

August 1, 2018
Briefings on APCs

CMS’ 2019 OPPS proposed rule, released in late July, continues the agency’s efforts to enforce site-neutral payments and reduce drug payments by introducing policies to reduce reimbursement for hospital outpatient clinic visits at off-campus, provider-based departments.

2019 OPPS proposed rule: CMS seeks feedback on quality measure removals, future rulemaking

August 1, 2018
Briefings on APCs

Along with quality measure removals in the 2018 OPPS and MPFS final rules, CMS has continued to propose additional removals in the 2019 proposed rules. In addition, the agency is proposing to add to its ability to remove quality measures in the future.

CMS addresses E/M subjectivity by proposing simplified coding processes

August 1, 2018
Briefings on APCs

Back in January, I wrote an article regarding E/M codes and the need for changes to the 1995 and 1997 E/M documentation guidelines. In that article, I suggested making E/M codes for office visits solely time-based to simplify the reporting of these very subjective codes. Little did I know that this is what CMS would propose months later.

Tips for submitting comments to CMS on the 2019 OPPS proposed rule

August 1, 2018
Briefings on APCs

Continuing with numerous specific requests for comment in last year’s OPPS proposed rule, CMS is once again asking stakeholders for feedback on a variety of issues for the 2019 OPPS proposed rule for future potential rulemaking. You may submit comments to the agency until September 24, 2018.