Article Detail - JF Part B

Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs), under the direction of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), are conducting a national cost analysis survey to assess the transportation components of portable X-ray services, specifically HCPCS codes R0070 and R0075. This survey is conducted every five years and will directly impact reimbursement rates starting in 2026.

With the survey deadline approaching on July 31, 2025, providers are strongly encouraged to review and submit their responses as soon as possible.

Why Is This Survey Important?

Portable X-ray services allow Medicare beneficiaries-especially those in home or nursing home settings-to receive diagnostic imaging without traveling to a healthcare facility. Billed separately under codes R0070 and R0075, the transportation component is essential to service delivery.

Key goals of this survey include:

• Evaluating current payment allowances to recognize costs incurred for portable x-ray transportation services (e.g., fuel, vehicle maintenance, staff wages).
• Addressing geographic cost differences between urban and rural service areas.
• Complying with federal payment policy updates and CMS directives.
• Responding to provider feedback regarding financial strain from outdated rates.
• Sustaining access to mobile imaging services for vulnerable Medicare populations.
• Achieve consistent cost evaluation through appropriate reporting of cost data in a singular MAC survey format.

What Is Being Collected?

MACs are gathering data on:

• Transportation expenses (fuel, insurance, maintenance)
• Labor costs for mobile X-ray staff
• Depreciation and equipment upkeep
• Administrative overhead
• Geographic variations impacting operational costs

What Providers Need to Do

If you furnish portable X-ray services and bill R0070 or R0075:

• Download and complete the survey found on the Understanding the 2026 Cost Analysis Survey for Medicare Allowances on Portable X-Ray Transportation Codes R0070 and R0075 webpage.
• Submit the completed survey via email to: medicalpolicy@noridian.com.
• Deadline for submission: July 31, 2025 - Late responses will not be accepted.

Benefits of Participation

By participating in this survey, providers will:

• Influence 2026 reimbursement levels for R0070 and R0075
• Help Medicare reflect actual cost realities
• Support continued access to care for homebound and institutionalized patients
• Stay engaged with regulatory compliance and payment policy evolution

Key Dates to Remember

• Survey Deadline: July 31, 2025
• Send completed surveys to: medicalpolicy@noridian.com.

For questions or clarification, contact your MAC contact or email the address above. Your input is essential to ensure portable X-ray services remain financially viable and widely available for Medicare beneficiaries.