CMS Proposes to Rescind Lab Requisition Signature Requirement

CMS is proposing to rescind a new requirement that the ordering physician or qualified non-physician practitioner (NPP) sign requisitions for all clinical diagnostic laboratory tests paid under the Clinical Laboratory Fee Schedule (CLFS). CMS states in the proposed rule: Upon review of the concerns that industry stakeholders raised after we finalized our policy in the CY 2011 PFS final rule with comment period, and in reconsideration of comments to the CY 2011 PFS proposed rule, we propose to retract the policy that was finalized in the CY 2011 PFS final rule with comment period, which required a physician’s or NPP’s signature on a requisition for clinical diagnostic laboratory tests paid under the CLFS and we propose to reinstate our prior policy that the signature of the physician or NPP is not required on a requisition for a clinical diagnostic laboratory test paid under the CLFS for Medicare purposes. Medical laboratory managers and pathologists are encouraged to read the language of the proposed repeal rule and provide public comment.