CMS Lessens Lab Test Cuts, Finalizes Revaluation Proposal In Physician Fee Schedule

In the final 2014 physician fee schedule rule, CMS scaled back cuts to independent labs from 26 percent to 5 percent. But it moved ahead with its proposal to update individual lab payments based on technological changes, a move that might lead to reductions over the long term.

Diagnostic laboratories and test makers can breathe easier in the near-term following CMS’ decision to scale back planned 2014 payment cuts to independent laboratories in the latest physician fee schedule. But the agency is moving forward with a longer-term wholesale review and planned revision of laboratory payments that is likely to keep the diagnostics community anxious.

Under the final 2014 physician fee schedule regulation, released by CMS on Nov. 27, the agency is cutting...

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