Breaking News Alert:  US House of Representatives Passes Extension of Therapy Cap Exceptions Process, Fee Schedule Provisions

The US House of Representatives passed legislation by a vote of 367 to 45 to extend the therapy cap exceptions process for 2007 and replace the scheduled 5.1% reduction in the 2007 conversion factor with a freeze at 2006 levels.  The provisions were included in the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 (HR 6111).  The bill also provides a 1.5% payment incentive for providers to report on quality measures, and maintains the Geographic Payment Cost Index (GPCI) at 1.0 for the 51 localities that fall below this index for 2007.

This legislation will still need to pass the Senate and be signed by the president to avoid the 5.1% reduction in the conversion factor and the expiration of the therapy cap exceptions on January 1, 2007. APTA's members and grassroots have made a significant impact in voicing the need to address the therapy cap and payment cuts prior to adjournment. Thank you for your continued advocacy!

Watch your inbox for additional breaking news alerts as the bill moves to the Senate. 

Ken Mailly, PT

Member, APTA Consulting Service - Practice Management Consultant Network

For more information about the APTA Consulting Service visit www.apta.org/memberservices. 

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