Here are four recent legislative changes that affect ASCs.
California updates ASC accreditation, privileges requirements
A California law is requiring ASCs to become accredited and give privileges to appropriately credentialed physicians. Effective Jan. 1, 2016, the law builds upon current state laws requiring ASCs and office-based surgical facilities to have appropriately qualified and credentialed, and for facilities without a state license or Medicare certification to get accreditation or Medical Board of California approval.
Electronic Fairness Act of 2015 to come to a vote: ASC physicians could earn EHR incentives
As part of the Electronic Fairness Act, physicians performing procedures at ASCs may soon be eligible to participate in the meaningful use program and earn incentive payments. Rep. Diane Black (R-Tenn.) sponsored the legislation, and the bill has been introduced in the Senate with sponsor Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.).
NY State Workers' Compensation board updates ambulatory fee schedule
New York State Workers' Compensation Board implemented a new ambulatory fee schedule for the New York State Workers' Compensation cases, leading many providers to fear cuts to pain management reimbursement as well as orthopedic surgeon reimbursement rates. The reimbursement will be 150 percent of Medicaid, and the board denied the new fee schedule reduced orthopedic surgeon reimbursement. The New York State Association for Ambulatory Surgery Centers asked the board to reconsider their changes during the public comment period between September and October of 2015, yet the board declined.
Connecticut law to clarify outpatient hospital facility fees in 2015
Connecticut passed a law clarifying outpatient hospital facility fees for patients. Starting Jan. 1, 2016, Connecticut hospitals were required to give a clearer explanation for outpatient services charges as part of a broader healthcare bill passed earlier in 2015. While hospitals in the state agreed to provide patients information about facility fees prior to treatment in 2013, there was not 100 percent compliance, leading to the 2015 law.
More healthcare news:
5 key notes on Americans' views on US involvement in global health
Global 3D printing market in healthcare to hit $3.9B by 2022: 6 quick facts
Pinehurst Surgical Center cuts costs with solar panels: 5 key notes