Radiology Business May 16, 2024
Radvocates are applauding a bipartisan bill introduced on Wednesday that aims to end a decade-long decline in Medicare payments to physicians.
The Radiation Oncology Case Rate (ROCR) Value-Based Program Act of 2024 seeks to modernize reimbursement for radiation therapy. Advances in cancer treatment have led to shorter courses, but fee-for-service medicine penalizes radiation oncologists who follow “best practices in care,” supporters note.
In addition, the program would unify payments across settings based on hospital technical fees and generate Medicare savings of about $200 million.
“The current Medicare Part B payment system favors longer courses of cancer treatment and undermines the ability of radiation oncology clinics to provide tailored care,” co-sponsor and Rep. Jimmy Panetta, D-Calif., said May 15. “By creating...