Psychologists need not wait until 2003, however, to ask for code changes. Reimbursement rates are also reconsidered annually. Psychologists have for the last two years enjoyed an increase in payments, while several medical specialists experienced a decline in payments. Reimbursement rates, however, are also due for a five-year review. The proposed changes are scheduled to be announced by the spring of 2001 and finalized by the fall next year as well.
Psychologists also have limited input into setting the rates for their services.
The committee has 29 members, with one non-medical specialist member. There are also two advisory committees, one made up of physician specialists. This year, a psychologist, James Georgoulakis, Ph.D., represents all allied health professionals on the committee.