02/13/2015

Ohio BWC Seeks to Establish Joint Arthroplasty Certification Program

The Bureau of Workers Compensation has contacted the OAASC about starting a joint arthroplasty certification program for ASCs.

Several years ago, the OAASC urged that a number of codes related to joint procedures be added to the BWC's ASC payment schedule.  While not Medicare certified, these procedures are being performed in a commercial payer setting. 

In 2013, the BWC initially tackled the discectomy/laminectomy procedure (CPT 63030).  

Late last year, BWC’s Health Care Quality Advisory Committee approved development of a joint arthroplasty program for ASCs.  The project is being directed by Freddie Johnson, Chief Medical Services Division & Compliance and BWCs Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Stephen Woods. 

The overall goal would be to develop a process and criteria for ASCs to be additionally certified to perform these procedures for BWC patients.

Additionally for the OAASC and our members,  the objective is to advance these codes within a BWC setting and move forward the OAASC's agenda of improving BWC reimbursements for all procedures as we continue to provide quality service to injured workers. 

If you would like to participate in this project please contact Randy Leffler at rleffler@oaasc.net.  The project will be launching soon, so if you have any interest in participating, please contact us ASAP.