NJ bill allows for docs to refer patients to their own ASCs

A bill signed in New Jersey on Monday allows doctors to refer patients to their own ambulatory surgery centers, but specifies that the referring physician must also perform the surgery themselves. Doctors also must have a financial stake in the ASC used, but are forbidden from receiving compensation based on the number of patients they see. 

Under the new law--an amended version of the 1991 Codey Law that states that it is illegal for doctors to refer patients to ASCs in which the physician has a financial stake--prior referrals also are compliant. 

Furthermore, one-operating-room ASCs that serve as add-ons to medical practices now must register with the New Jersey Health and Senior Services Department, and also need to be accredited by a "CMS-recognized accrediting body." 

For more on the new law"
- check out the Modern Healthcare article

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