Third Party Payers

NASW members are seeking reimbursement clarifications when performing psychotherapy services to Medicare Part B beneficiaries who do not wish to use their Medicare benefits. In such situations, a clinical social worker may opt-out of Medicare. This means that the clinical social worker cannot bill Medicare for any services they perform. Instead, reimbursement is received from the Medicare beneficiary under the terms of a private contract.

The 2015 Final Physician Fee Schedule was released in the Federal Register on November 13, 2014 and provides regulations for clinical social workers who provide psychotherapy services. Clinical social workers should note these changes to keep their Medicare practice running smoothly and effectively.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the final rule for the 2014 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule on November 27, 2013. Implementation of the final rule is January 1, 2014.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the final rule for the 2013 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule on November 1, 2012.

For 2012, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced several changes impacting clinical social workers who are Medicare providers. Clinical social workers should note these changes to keep their Medicare practice running smoothly and effectively.

Since the release of the recent Practice Perspective, Clinical Social Workers Be Aware: Version 5010 is Coming (Fall, 2011), many clinical social workers have contacted NASW with questions. This Practice Perspective responds to frequently asked questions by NASW members who are preparing for compliance with the 5010 deadline of January 1, 2012.