Jun

23

AHA comments on payment cuts in 2010 IPPS proposed rule

By HIM Connection

On June 15, the American Hospital Association (AHA) provided comments to CMS about changes outlined in the fiscal year (FY) 2010 IPPS proposed rule. In its comments, the agency questioned the proposed negative 1.9% documentation and coding adjustment (DCA) in FY 2010 and beyond, stating that CMS’ findings that real case mix index declined between FYs 2007 and 2008 is "incorrect and overstated." Instead, the AHA found "a historical pattern of steady annual increases of 1.2% and 1.3% in real case mix."

The proposed DCA would result in a cut in both operating and capital payments that total $23 billion over 10 years. Hospitals would be paid $1 billion less in FY 2010 than in FY 2009.

The AHA states, "Given the severity of the 1.9% proposed cut, and in light of the fact that our analysis shows real increases in patient severity, we ask that the agency significantly mitigate its proposed documentation and coding cut."

Hospitals may comment on the proposed rule until no later than June 30.

To read a more in-depth article about the AHA’s stance, visit www.healthleadersmedia.com.