Medicare Payment Increase in Final Budget Reconciliation Bill
The bill includes a 2.5% increase to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for calendar year 2026.
Read moreThe U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published a final rule Dec. 17, that includes a new information blocking (45 CFR Part 171) exception and other updates to protect providers and patients concerned that sharing data about lawfully provided reproductive care services could result in legal action or privacy concerns under certain circumstances. The American College of Radiology® (ACR®) supported finalization of these protections.
The exception was originally a subcomponent of a proposed rule that covered various electronic health record (EHR)/health IT certification criteria and Information Blocking regulatory updates. All other proposals from the rulemaking commented on by ACR — including those related to imaging links in certified EHRs and a new information blocking exception for following patient communication timing preferences — will be handled via a future final rule.
For more information about information blocking rules in general, visit ACR’s related resource page. For questions about digital health policy, contact Michael Peters, ACR Senior Director, Government Affairs.
Medicare Payment Increase in Final Budget Reconciliation Bill
The bill includes a 2.5% increase to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for calendar year 2026.
Read moreCMS Announces Prior Authorization Test Model
WiSer is a six-year program that will begin in six states on January 1, 2026. It will introduce prior authorization using AI technology for a select number of services, including some IR procedures.
Read moreSupreme Court Upholds Preventive Services Coverage
ACR commends the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming the constitutionality of the structure and appointment process of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
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