On July 13, 2017, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule that updates payment policies, payment rates, and quality provisions for services furnished under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) on or after January 1, 2018. The PFS pays for services furnished by physicians and other practitioners in all sites of service. These services include but are not limited to visits, surgical procedures, diagnostic tests, therapy services, and specified preventive services. CMS will issue the final 2018 rule by November 1, 2017.

ISASS submitted comments to CMS in support of the RUC-recommended value of the new bone marrow aspiration code for spine surgery (2093X) as well as comments in support of CMS’ proposal to designate CPT code 27279 (Arthrodesis, sacroiliac joint, percutaneous or minimally invasive (indirect visualization), with image guidance, includes obtaining bone graft when performed, and placement of transfixing device) as potentially misvalued. Click here to read ISASS’ comment letter. Click here for a full summary of the proposed rule and here for a comprehensive comparison of RVUs and reimbursements of spine procedures from the 2017 final rule to the 2018 proposed rule.