Two new ultrasound of extremity codes have been created by the CPT Editorial Panel. The next step is the valuation of these codes by the Relative Value Update Committee (RUC). This is accomplished using data collected through the online survey, which will be compiled, evaluated and then presented to the RUC Committee in April 2010.

The surveys need to be completed by March 22, 2010.

In order for the ACR to make recommendations to the RUC on physician work and practice expense and to ensure appropriate payment for the above codes, we will need to obtain as many surveys as possible. It is crucial that you actively participate in the survey process since over 90% of the RUC recommendations for physician work RVUs have been accepted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for their fee schedule, which then may be used by other payers as well.

Link to the survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/FR3HMQS