title: SGR reform and nephrology: difficult problems, potential solutions.
abstract: In light of the massive uncertainty with both the federal government in general and health policy priorities specifically, it is probably constructive to focus on the things we know for sure. In Medicare Part B reimbursement, the SGR system is fundamentally flawed, and must be replaced. All of Congress has recognized this fact, and there is legislation in the House that would move the ball forward on SGR repeal and replacement. Likewise, coordinated care models like ACOs offer a logical process for achieving a triple aim: improving individual health care, improving population health, and promoting cost efficiency in health care. Hopefully, policy makers in Washington will recognize and act on these truths as well.
authors.affiliation: Renal Physicians Association, Rockville, MD, USA.
authors.forename: Ruben
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Velez
authors.forename: Dale
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Singer
authors.forename: Robert
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Blaser
mesh_terms: D060866:Accountable Care Organizations / Q000191:economics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D006801:Humans; D007676:Kidney Failure, Chronic / Q000191:economics / Q000628:therapy; D016345:Medicare Part B / Q000191:economics* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D011057:Politics; D011907:Rate Setting and Review / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D012051:Reimbursement Mechanisms / Q000191:economics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D014481:United States