medicare · Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services · Rule · Published 1997-08-08 · Effective 1997-10-01 · 62 FR 42860
Document
Document number
97-20775
Federal Register citation
62 FR 42860
CFR reference
42 CFR 418
Type
Rule
Action
Final rule.
Category
medicare
Sub-agency
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
Publication date
1997-08-08
Effective date
1997-10-01
HHS docket
BPD-820-F
Abstract
This final rule establishes a methodology to update the wage index used to adjust Medicare payment rates for hospice care. It also includes the new wage index, to be effective October 1, 1997. The wage index is used to reflect local differences in wage levels. A new wage index is needed because the index currently applied is based on 1981 wage and employment data and has not been updated since 1983. The methodology is based on the recommendations of a negotiated rulemaking advisory committee comprised of persons who represent interests affected by the hospice rules.