Tips and Tools for Social Workers

On November 2, 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the final rule for the 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (CMS–1784–P). The 2024 Physician Fee Schedule details services to address health equity and health-related social needs available to Medicare beneficiaries.

During the month of May, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month. The association recognizes millions of people impacted by mental health conditions in the United States each year. Although mental health conditions are common, research estimates that only half of the people impacted receive treatment. The association also acknowledges the ongoing dedication of social workers who provide mental health services such as crisis intervention, assessment, treatment, and support.

In February 2024, NASW members informed the association of mass overpayment requests from Optum United Behavioral Health. Optum Recovery Service reported that they paid clinical social work providers 100 percent of the psychologist rate when they should have been paid only 75 percent of the psychologist rate. As a result, Optum requested overpayment of 25 percent from clinical social work providers who received reimbursement for services provided to beneficiaries of Medicare Advantage Plans.

This update is a follow-up to NASW’s Tips and Tools, New Medicare Reimbursement for 2024

Dr. Anthony Estreet, CEO of NASW, contacted the CEOs of Optum Health and United Health Group regarding overpayment requests. You can read the letter at the link.

The primary focus of school is to provide children and adolescents with a quality education. However, various factors can pose challenges in how students interact with and learn in the education system. Particularly, substance use in schools can lead to educational disruptions and cause emotional trauma for staff and students.