BREAKING NEWS!!
Breaking News Alert: US House of Representatives Passes Extension
of Therapy Cap Exceptions Process, Fee Schedule Provisions

The US House of Representatives passed legislation by a vote of 367
to 45 to extend the therapy cap exceptions process for 2007 and
replace the scheduled 5.1% reduction in the 2007 conversion factor
with a freeze at 2006 levels. The provisions were included in the
Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 (HR 6111). The bill also
provides a 1.5% payment incentive for providers to report on quality
measures, and maintains the Geographic Payment Cost Index (GPCI) at
1.0 for the 51 localities that fall below this index for 2007.
This legislation will still need to pass the Senate and be signed by
the president to avoid the 5.1% reduction in the conversion factor
and the expiration of the therapy cap exceptions on January 1, 2007.
APTA's members and grassroots have made a significant impact in
voicing the need to address the therapy cap and payment cuts prior
to adjournment. Thank you for your continued advocacy!