CMS is considering adding new dental codes for ASCs and assigning codes to ambulatory payment classifications in its proposed 2024 hospital outpatient prospective payment system and ASC payment system rule.
CMS proposed aligning Medicare payment rates for approximately 229 dental codes with provisions in the 2023 Physician Fee Schedule by assigning them to APCs. The organization said July 13 that assigning additional dental codes to APCs will result in greater consistency in Medicare payments for different sites of service and ensure access to outpatient dental services.
CMS also proposed adding 26 separately payable dental surgical procedures to the ASC covered procedures list and 78 dental services to the covered ancillary services list. The organization said the move would increase access for individuals with disabilities and other chronic conditions.
CMS will take comments on the proposed rule until Sept. 11. The final rule will be published in November.