September 2007

CMS publishes final phase of Stark Act

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has published the final phase (Phase III) of the Stark Act, which governs physician-referrals to entities in which the physician has an ownership. The 89-page document was published in the Federal Register Sept. 5.

The rule takes effect Dec. 4. Phase I of the Stark Act was published in January 2001. Phase II was published in March 2004.

In Phase III, CMS says it has reduced the regulatory burden on the healthcare industry through the interpretation of statutory exceptions and modification of the exceptions.

To access the final rule, go to www.chiroeco.com/starkrule.

Source: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, www.cms.hhs.gov

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