MedPAC approves 1% composite rate update in 2010

[okarol]

MedPAC approves 1% composite rate update in 2010
1/12/2009 10:36:05 AM

The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) approved the recommendation that the end-stage renal disease composite rate be updated by 1% for calendar year (CY) 2010.  In December, MedPAC recommended that the ESRD composite rate be updated by the projected rate of increase in the ESRD market basket (2.5%) less the projected adjustment for productivity growth for CY 2010 (1.3%). The net recommendation was a 1.2% increase to the composite rate. MedPAC chairman Glenn Hackbarth said the 1% update would reflect current law and is within the range of appropriate composite updates.

During her presentation, MedPAC researcher Nancy Ray noted that the Medicare margin for composite rate services and dialysis drugs is projected to be 1.2% in 2009. It was 4.8% in 2007. She also said that in 2007 the Medicare margin for providers affiliated with the two largest chains was 6.9% and 0.2% for those not affiliated with the two largest chains.
                                    –– From Renal Watch, 1/9/09
 
Click here to read Nancy Ray’s presentation to MedPAC commissioners. (go to link below and click to get PDF)

http://www.nephronline.com/news.asp?N_ID=2608

[Zach]

... less the projected adjustment for productivity growth for CY 2010 (1.3%)...

productivity growth=fewer patient care staff.