Patsy Newitt, for Becker’s ASC Review:
The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 updated exceptions to Stark law and anti-kickback law that will allow hospitals and healthcare providers to improve mental health services for physicians. The law issues a new exception for physician wellness programs offered by healthcare entities, including ASCs, hospitals and physician practices.
To satisfy the exception, the program must also include a written policy, which must include a description of the content and duration of the program, a description of the evidence-based support, and the estimated costs, among other stipulations.