Keywords

CMS, CPT code, Current Procedural Terminology, nurses, relative value units, Resource-Based Relative-Value Scale Update Committee, RUC, RVUs

 

Authors

  1. Volpert, Elisabeth DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
  2. Van Keuren, Korinne DNP, APRN, CPNP-AC, PNP-C, RNFA
  3. Trainum, Brooke JD

Abstract

Abstract: Relative value units (RVUs) are a measurement of practice efficiency and patient complexity. RVUs are reviewed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services through the Resource-Based Relative-Value Scale Update Committee, which determines recommendations regarding the Current Procedural Terminology code valuations for the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. This article discusses the importance of nurses' participation in the accurate valuation of their work and in the process of developing and revising RVUs.