Resources to Better Understand and Prepare For Upcoming RUC Surveys

As part of ACC's ongoing involvement in the American Medical Association (AMA)/Specialty Society Relative Value Scale Update Committee (RUC) process, the College distributes RUC physician work surveys periodically to a random sample of ACC members within the relevant subspecialty of codes being surveyed. Survey respondents are asked to estimate their typical time, intensity and complexity of their work and the work Relative Value Unit for the given procedure in comparison to a list of reference services with established values.

Robust participation in RUC surveys is essential so that cardiovascular clinicians can contribute their input on the relative value of the services they provide. This feedback is the basis on which the RUC formulates the relative values it recommends to Medicare.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Purpose of the Surveys: These surveys aim to collect data from clinicians to assess the relative value of CPT codes currently undergoing initial or re-evaluation.
2. Potential Impact on Cardiology: The results from these surveys can have significant implications for the field of cardiology, with the potential to shape resource allocation in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, and subsequently impact other payors. Clinicians are encouraged to participate to ensure their perspectives are considered in the decision-making process.
3. Other Resources: The AMA has additional resources including:
   • Video on how to complete the surveys
   • Video overview of RUC process
   • RUC Process Overview slide deck
   • AMA RUC landing page

Clinicians should take the time to review these materials to better understand and accurately engage in the surveys. For any additional questions about the RUC process or current survey effort, please contact Matt Minnella.