CMS is accepting public comments on the proposed rule through Aug. 31 before issuing a final rule later this year. The agency expects the final payment policies to take effect Jan. 1, 2027.

CMS Proposes Medicare Outpatient Payment Update, New Policies for Hospitals and Surgery Centers

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has proposed a broad package of changes to Medicare payment policies for hospital outpatient departments and ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) for calendar year 2027, including a 2.4% payment increase for providers that meet quality reporting requirements, expanded site-neutral payment policies and new initiatives aimed at lowering prescription drug costs and improving transparency.  

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