Controversial Medical Fee Schedule Implemented in Ill.

Despite criticism from many quarters, Illinois adopted a controversial medical fee schedule -- the first for the state. The schedule was mandated by legislators in 2005, but it came under fire from many stakeholders before its adoption. Critics included trial lawyers, the AFL-CIO, American Insurance Association, Illinois State Medical Society, Illinois Hospital Association and a variety of specialist surgeons who opposed stepped-down payments for multiple surgeries. Questions also were raised regarding calculation of payment rates in different areas of the state. The bill set the t...