ACR Urges CMS to Permanently Implement Virtual Supervision

Introduction: 

In a recent meeting on February 12, 2024, the American College of Radiology (ACR) urged the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to make virtual supervision of diagnostic tests permanent. 

Background: 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, CMS altered the definition of direct supervision to allow for virtual presence through real-time audio/video communication. In October 2023, CMS published the 2024 calendar year Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) Final Rule where it finalized the extension of virtual supervision through at least December 31st, 2024.

What does this mean for imaging centers? ‍

By permanently extending the definition of direct supervision to permit virtual presence, imaging companies and patients alike stand to benefit. For imaging companies, virtual supervision helps to alleviate logistical difficulties related to scheduling on-site supervision, and increases their capacity to accommodate patients at later hours in the evening and on the weekends. For patients, virtual supervision affords more access to care without compromising on safety.

Conclusion: ‍

As the nation’s largest governing body and foremost authority in radiology, the ACR’s advocacy and support in permanently allowing providers to supervise diagnostic tests remotely marks a significant milestone toward enacting policy change. The ACR's statement highlights the safety and advantages of virtual supervision, and sends a meaningful message to CMS regarding industry support for virtual supervision. The clear benefits to improved patient access, reduced resource strain, and reduced healthcare costs decisively outweigh the risks of regressing back to on-site supervision.