TRICARE; outpatient hospital prospective payment system (OPPS). Interim final rule

This interim final rule implements a prospective payment system for hospital outpatient services similar to that furnished to Medicare beneficiaries, as set forth in section 1833(t) of the Social Security Act. The rule also recognizes applicable statutory requirements and changes arising from Medicare's continuing experience with this system including certain related provisions of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003. The Department is publishing this rule as an interim final rule to implement existing statutory requirements for adoption of Medicare payment methods for institutional care. Interim final rule publication will ensure the expeditious implementation of a proven hospital OPPS, providing incentives for hospitals to furnish outpatient services in an efficient and effective manner. However, public comments are invited and will be considered for possible revisions to the final rule.