What Happens Next?
CMS proposed the changes in June. According to the law, CMS must solicit comments from the public for 60 days. Some time after considering these comments, CMS will announce its final decision on the payment changes for E/M and other services. “They usually release their final rule in October or November,” says Whitman. CMS has proposed using the revised RVUs beginning January 1, 2007.
For the latest news on the proposed payment changes, check the SHM Web site at www.hospitalmedicine.org. If you’re a member of the ACP, check out the online reimbursement calculator at www.acponline.org/private/pmc/emimpact.html. TH