After suffering significant payment reductions in the last few years, diagnostic imaging providers are once again squarely in the government’s crosshairs. The Obama Administration budget proposal for 2010 calls for Medicare to begin using radiology benefit managers (RBMs) to reduce health care costs. Meantime, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) has recommended that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) change its equipment utilization rate factor in the calculation of advanced imaging from the current 50 percent to 90 percent. Both proposals, if enacted, could result in additional significant payment cuts for diagnostic imaging providers.

Also on the table are several proposals contained in a budget document released by the Senate Finance Committee outlining policy options for overhauling the health care system. Among them: a requirement that self-referring physicians disclose their financial interest in certain imaging services provided through the in-office ancillary services exception and a proposal calling for adherence to appropriateness criteria.

Join Washington G-2 Reports for a 90-minute Webinar on the proposed changes and what they will mean for you if they are enacted.

During the program, you’ll:

• Understand Medicare spending trends on imaging over the past few years and how these trends influence what is likely to come out of Congress this year
• Find out what the Obama Administration and MedPAC are recommending as a means to reduce Medicare spending on diagnostic imaging services
• Hear about proposed policy changes being considered by the congressional committees as part of larger health care reform
• Learn how the proposed imaging changes, if enacted, will affect your bottom line

FEATURED FACULTY

M. Shane Foreman
Principal & Founder 3d Health

Kimberly Scott,
Senior Editor, Washington G-2 Reports

Approved for 1.5 of ARRT Category A CE credits by the AHRA

Register today! Unable to attend? Order the CD now!