AAOS issues formal letter on process of resolving out-of-network medical billing disputes
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has issued a formal letter to the HHS, and the departments of Labor and Treasury to advocate for a revision to the process of resolving out-of-network medical billing disputes.
According to a press release, the AAOS is urging the departments to consider aligning the surprise billing Interim Final Rule (IFC) with the No Surprises Act, which is designed to settle billing disputes in a way that more fairly protects patients rather than insurers.
The IFC is scheduled to take effect on Jan. 1, 2022.
“Not only is this a significant departure from congressional intent, it conveys to physicians that the government is willing to emphasize cost-saving measures targeting front-line physicians above patient safety and access when it comes to solving the issues that concern the health care system,” Daniel K. Guy, MD, FAAOS, president of AAOS, wrote in the letter.
“We strongly urge the departments to update the IFC to reflect the statutory language and intent of the law,” Guy wrote. “It is imperative to the continued practice of medicine in the United States that these consumer protections ensure both patients’ access to care and the financial health of their physicians.”
Reference:
https://www.aaos.org/globalassets/advocacy/issues/surprise-billing-part-ii-letter-aaos_final.pdf