SNFs to get 1.8 percent increase in payment rates

The 2013 prospective payment system (PPS) rates for skilled nursing facilities will increase by 1.8 percent, according to a notice released by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

The new rates will apply to services that are billed under Medicare Part A.

 “After years of reimbursement volatility, today’s update to Medicare payments is welcome news to skilled nursing providers,” said American Health Care Association (AHCA) President & CEO Mark Parkinson in a statement. “AHCA appreciates CMS’ balanced approach to this year’s Medicare payment system after recognizing the many rounds of government reductions the profession has already endured. Stable Medicare funding will help ensure America’s seniors continue to have access to high quality, post-acute care.”

The annual update to the PPS rates is required by law. The notice is scheduled to be published in the Federal Register Thursday.