Becker's Healthcare June 25, 2025
Stark law compliance is becoming increasingly critical for physicians and healthcare organizations. In 2024 alone, CMS reported a record 314 self-disclosure settlements under the law, totaling more than $24.7 million.
Here is a year-by-year overview of significant Stark law changes since its inception in 1989, according to a blog post from healthcare management company 99MGMT.
1989: Congress enacts Stark law, initially targeting physician referrals for clinical laboratory services. The law officially takes effect on Jan. 1, 1992.
1993-1994: The scope expands to cover additional Designated Health Services, including radiology, physical therapy and other services. Some provisions are extended to Medicaid.
1997: The HHS secretary is granted authority to issue written advisory opinions on whether specific referral arrangements comply with the...







