SGR update - Senate approves a 31-day patch; House to act next
This evening the Senate approved by unanimous consent a bill that will provide a 31-day payment patch to the Medicare sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula. The bill will freeze current rates for services provided through Dec. 31, and temporarily avert a 23 percent cut to physician payments that was slated to take effect on Dec. 1.
The House of Representatives has adjourned for the week. The representatives are anticipated to vote on the bill upon their return.
While the 31-day fix, if approved, is a step in the right direction, it is only a temporary patch. Physicians still face a 25 percent cut on January 1, 2011. MGMA continues to call for an additional 12-month fix to give lawmakers time to find a permanent solution. Additional member grassroots advocacy during December is necessary to halt the 25 percent cut on Jan.1. We will continue to keep you apprised as we receive further updates.
Source: Washington Connexion