For graduates of AuD programs across the country, understanding the steps required to become an independent audiologist can be helpful for a smooth transition from student to practitioner.

Pricing Thoughts Overview

• How do you set your fees?
• How much is too much and how much is not enough?

For diagnostics, some audiologists may look at the fee schedule provided by third parties such as Medicare and wonder if those fees should be the fees for all patients.

For products, audiologists may use manufacturers’ suggested retail pricing to determine how much should be charged.

Introduction to the Medicare Advantage Program

The Medicare Part C Program was developed following passage of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 and went into effect in January of 1999. With identified gaps in coverage for Medicare beneficiaries, the addition of an optional Medicare program permitted the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to contract with private or public agencies to provide additional Medicare options for beneficiaries who wished to seek coverage in addition to original Medicare’s Part A and B benefits. 

Did you know that at the end of 2016, the Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS) ended and was replaced by CMS’ new Quality Payment Program (QPP)? This means that 2016 was the final year in which providers, including audiologists, were eligible to participate in the PQRS program.