New SGR Repeal and Replace Proposal Introduced by Key Senate and House Committees

The Senate Finance Committee and House Ways and Means Committee released a new joint bipartisan and bicameral framework for repealing and replacing the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula. 

The new proposal represents an alternative to the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s proposal, H.R. 2810, Medicare Patient Access and Quality Improvement Act of 2013.  This proposal passed out of the Committee by a vote of 51-0 on July 31, 2013.       

The Committees note that their new proposal would "permanently repeal the SGR update mechanism, reform the fee-for-service (FFS) payment system through a greater focus on value over volume, and encourage participation in alternative payment models (APM)."  The Committees also propose combining the current quality incentive and penalty programs into one budget-neutral "Value Based Performance Program."

The Committees have called for comment from stakeholders by November 12, 2013.  ASA is closely reviewing the proposal in anticipation of offering recommendations. 

Review the Committees' Joint Press Release.
Review the Committees' Framework Document.  
Review the Committees' FAQ.
Review the Committees' Overview of Current Law Physician Reporting/Incentive Systems.
Information about H.R. 2810, Medicare Patient Access and Quality Improvement Act of 2013.