Reimbursement
Stays at the highest severity level are vulnerable to inappropriate billing practices, OIG says.
Providers may seek federal reimbursement for costs incurred for COVID-19 testing or vaccines to those who are uninsured.
This week's top stories include U.S. hospitals and health systems facing a long road to recovery after COVID-19's devastating winter surge and HHS Secretary nominee Xavier Becerra signaling support for virtual care.
Prior authorizations in particular are a complex, time-consuming function that would be well served by technology.
New analysis shows total hospital revenue in 2021 could be down between $53 billion and $122 billion from pre-pandemic levels.
Similar to the COVID-19 vaccine, Medicare will cover these infusions for the duration of the public health emergency.
Operating margin was -0.6% in January, not including CARES Act funding, while total expenses continue to rise.
Although RAND said price regulation is the most effective way to reduce spending, the researchers said this method has the most opposition.
Flu data from 2018, the closest analog, shows costs for patients could add up to hundreds or even thousands.
Under the Biden Administration, the DOJ says the ACA can stand even though there is no longer a tax penalty for not having health insurance.