CMS Updates on Batching Rules: What You Need to Know

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently clarified its rules around batching disputes as part of the Independent Dispute Resolution (IDR) process under the No Surprises Act. These updates are crucial for neurosurgeons navigating payment disputes, especially when it comes to handling surprise billing scenarios.

According to FHAS, the updated rules allow for services provided to a single patient, or services related to the same condition, to be grouped (“batched”) into one dispute. This streamlines the process for neurosurgeons, helping them manage multiple payment issues simultaneously. Additionally, CMS has introduced a 90-day cooling-off period after a payment decision is made, which limits the ability to initiate a new dispute involving the same items or services during that time.

These changes are designed to improve efficiency and reduce costs in handling billing disputes, making it easier for neurosurgeons to resolve multiple cases at once. For further details on how these rules could impact your practice, you can read the full article here.

Call to Action: Oppose Harmful Liability Expansion Bills that Will Impede Access to Care

The wrongful death bill has once again passed the Legislature and is expected to be sent to Governor Hochul soon. As healthcare professionals, we must take a stand to protect our practices and patients. This bill (S8485-B/A9232-B) would greatly expand the damages awarded in wrongful death cases, potentially causing a dramatic increase in medical liability insurance premiums.

Governor Hochul previously vetoed a similar bill in December 2023, but the Legislature has pass a bill with nearly identical provisions. If signed into law, it could severely affect access to care by increasing costs for healthcare providers across New York.

Now is the time for action. Physicians, colleagues, and concerned citizens are encouraged to contact Governor Hochul and urge her to veto this one-sided legislation. This bill not only threatens our practices but could also undermine patient care by exacerbating already high liability costs.

How to Take Action:

• Contact Governor Hochul via the MSSNY Grassroots Action Center.
• Call her office at 518-474-8390.
• Spread the word on social media:
  • Facebook: @Governor Kathy Hochul
  • Twitter: @govkathyhochul
  • Instagram: @govkathyhochul

To assist you in your advocacy efforts, MSSNY has created a toolkit with important resources, including an op-ed template, social media posts, and detailed talking points. For more information, visit the MSSNY Grassroots Action Center and take a stand for New York’s physicians and patients.