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Compared to the rest of the country, Iowa (at 17 percent) ranks near the top among states in its proportion of Medicare beneficiaries and, at 13 practicing physicians per 1,000 beneficiaries, ranks close to last among states in its ratio of physicians to Medicare beneficiaries. Additionally, Medicare reimbursement to Iowa physicians ranks among the lowest in the country - averaging around 80th out of 89 payment localities. Despite these factors, nationwide the quality of Iowa's health care is ranked 2nd overall.
Any physician who refers or orders services (DMEPOS, home health, specialist services [not defined by CMS], lab, or imaging) will need to be enrolled with Medicare in the Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System (PECOS) by July 6, 2010. This...
Every three years, federal law requires CMS to review the geographic practice cost indices (GPCIs) and their values as applied in each of Medicare's 89 Part B payment localities. The review is to be conducted in consultation with appropriate representatives...
CMS and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) are encouraging public comment on two regulations that lay a foundation for improving quality, efficiency and safety through meaningful use of certified electronic...
CMS has announced the release of 2010 ERX and PQRI measure specifications, as well as information regarding 2010 PQRI reporting periods and options. The 2010 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) educational products are now posted...
CMS has announced the posting of 2010 Electronic Prescribing Incentive (eRx) Program educational products to the eRx webpage:
2010 eRx Measure Specifications and Release Notes - Provides guidance on the 2010 eRx measure specifications for...
CMS has released the 2010 Medicare physician payment schedule proposed rule, including a long-awaited announcement that the Obama Administration will change the definition of physician services under the SGR to...
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has become aware of a scam that might affect your practice. Perpetrators are sending faxes to physician offices posing as the Medicare carrier or Medicare...
In February, Iowa transitioned to WPS Medicare as the state's new Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC). WPS hosted several educational teleconferences about the billing of consultations. IMS heard...