Stark Laws

[The JockDoc]

I've been trying to research stark laws and haven't been able to come up with any sources that provide a concise and accurate description of what is or isn't allowed under them. I understand that a lot of the ambiguity is due to the laws' own complexity. A lawyer is probably the best source, but there has to be someone here who knows something about stark. Does anyone here have a sound understanding of how the laws apply to a physiatrist who wants to put up a shingle?

Some other questions: Do they only apply to medicare/medicaid reimbursed services? I've heard of physiatrists hiring pt/ots, but how is this kosher? If i own a coffee stand outside my office and refer patients there, am i breaking the law 😕?

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[RUOkie]

http://www.aapmr.org/hpl/pracguide/pmrprac/starkb.htm

Here is the link for info from aapmr about the Stark II changes. The basic rule is no self referral to any entity that you own more than 5% unless there is a "whole hospital" or "whole practice" exclusions. There is also some rural health exclusions which apply to everything except PT/OT.

If you hire a PT, you can bill for the service if you have line of site supervision and you do the billing. If the PT bills, you cannot. If you don't see medicare, you can do what you want (some work comp clinics who never see Care/Caid can get away with this).😴😴

Most PT clinics associated with physician offices are now independent regarding ownership and management.