Outpatient Prospective Payment System/Ambulatory Surgical Center Rule

Medicare payment for outpatient services provided in hospitals is based on set rates under Medicare Part B. The system for payment, known as the Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) is used when paying for services such as X rays, emergency department visits, and partial hospitalization services in hospital outpatient departments. Payment for ambulatory surgical center (ASC) services is also based on rates set under Medicare Part B.

This system for payment is called the ASC Payment System and is used when paying for covered surgical procedures, including ASC facility services that are furnished in connection with the covered surgical procedure. CMS updates the OPPS/ASC regulations together in one rule annually, with comment periods open prior to implementation of the final rule. Because a significant amount of surgical care takes place in hospital outpatient departments and ASCs, the ACS has a strong interest in CMS’ OPPS and ASC Payment System and the quality improvement efforts addressed in the OPPS/ASC rule.

ACS Comment Letters

CY 2025 OPP/ASC Proposed Rule—ACS Comment Letter

CY 2024 OPPS/ASC Proposed Rule—ACS Comment Letter

CY 2023 OPPS/ASC Proposed Rule—ACS Comment Letter

CY 2022 OPPS/ASC Proposed Rule—ACS Comment Letter

CY 2021 OPPS/ASC Proposed Rule—ACS Comment Letter