The Behavioral Medicine Report

At the urging of the APA Practice Organization (APAPO) and other provider groups, late last night the Senate voted 78-19 to pass legislation (H.R. 4691) to postpone the 21.2% Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) cut through March 31 as Congress considers longer term solutions. The bill passed the House by voice vote on February 25 and now heads to the President for his signature. This action will prevent SGR reductions to reimbursements through the end of March.

The Senate has begun debate on another extender measure (H.R. 4213), which includes prevention of the SGR cut through September 30 and retroactive extension of the 5% Medicare psychotherapy restoration provision through December 31, 2010. Debate on that bill could last more than a week and would then need to be considered by the House. We will continue to keep you posted.

Jeff Cook, J.D.
Director of Field & State Operations
American Psychological Association Practice Organization 750 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20002
(202) 336-5875 (Office)
(202) 336-5797 (Fax)
jco…@apa.org (click to verify and reveal email)

Republished with permission: APAPO

1. Medicare Payment Changes Alert (12-18-09): Congress Temporarily Postpones SGR Cut
2. Update On Legislative Action On The Sustainable Growth Rate (02/26/10)
3. Update on 2010 Medicare Fee Schedules (12-16-09)
4. Update on Medicare Payment Efforts (02-03-10)
5. Senate Passes Psychotherapy Restoration Extension (APAPO Action Request!)