Resource-Based Relative Value Scale (RBRVS), coding, and Medicare reimbursement.

Many changes occurred during 1996 in the Resource-Based Relative Value Scale that determines physician payment for services to Medicare beneficiaries in 1997. These issues include the 5-year review of physician work values, the Correct Coding Initiative, changes in the surgical Conversion Factor, and a new Medicare payment formula. Likewise, several more changes on the horizon in 1997 will dramatically impact the 1998 Medicare Fee Schedule, primarily the upcoming resource-based Practice Cost Relative Value Scale, and possible elimination of the separate surgical Conversion Factors. There are also several new Current Procedural Terminology codes that will receive Medicare payment in 1997 and 1998. This article summarizes these events and issues from a vascular surgical perspective.