Why Congress Might Relax Physician Anti-Kickback Rules

“Most older Americans are dealing with multiple health issues that require them to see different doctors or go to different health facilities. But what if these different providers were working together to deliver care to the patient? That’s the idea behind accountable care organizations (ACOs), which deal with Medicare patients. The goal of ACOs is to eliminate inefficiencies, control costs and improve overall health outcomes. But these partnerships often run afoul of anti-kickback legislation known as the Stark Law, which was created to keep physicians from referring patients to services in which they may have a financial interest. The Department of Health and Human Services wants to reform the law, so it’s likely to be on Congress’ agenda this year.” Read more at Knowledge@Wharton