Stakes high for federal guide on cataract surgery

Article Abstract:

The U S Agency for Health Care Policy and Research has issued a guideline on cataract treatment that critics contend may eventually limit the availability of cataract surgery. Cataract surgery generates $3.4 billion annually in Medicare payments for more than 1.35 million operations. Under new Medicare laws, physicians who receive $1,350 per operation in 1993 will be reimbursed only $940 in 1996. The guide line should also protect the quality of cataract surgery. The American Academy of Ophthalmology endorses the guideline, but other ophthalmology groups are protesting the rules.

Offices & clinics of medical doctors, Admin. of social & manpower programs, Care and treatment, Reports, Physicians, Medical professions, Social policy, Cataract, Cataracts, United States. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, American Academy of Ophthalmology

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Medical society fighting broad use of licensing fees

Article Abstract:

The California Medical Assn is suing the State of California for tapping into the income it receives from physician licensing fees. For example, the state has appropriated $561,014 in such fees since Jan 1993. This practice is common in many US states, but has never occurred before in California. If the suit is successful, several other state medical associations may also sue their states.

Cases, California, Health occupations licensing boards, California Medical Association

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