Question from media about Wright rep-less sales models

Hi Jaimy,

Nice article. There is one facet of the "rep-less" sales model that has yet to be addressed in your article, as well by the posters to this thread on CP, and that facet is particularly germane to the discussion: The bundled payments for spinal implants vs. payments for the implants being reimbursed outside the amounts allowed for the surgery itself.

At present, CMS reimburses for spinal implants as part of the payment for the surgical procedure. There is no separate reimbursement for the spinal hardware.

Considering the tsunami wave of baby boomers now becoming Medicare beneficiaries on a daily basis, the methodology for reimbursement can only be sustained if the cost of the hardware is bundled into the cost for the surgery --- instead of being reimbursed separately.

The "rep-less" sales model reduces the cost of implants for hospitals treating the Medicare beneficiary, as the hospital does not get paid one penny more for the cost of the implant paid for by CMS, regardless of whether the implant comes with a rep, or is "rep-less."

If the hospital is paid the same by CMS for the spinal surgery, regardless of the cost of the implants, it makes financial sense for the hospital to go the "rep-less" route.

To more fully understand the business of spinal surgery, and the fight over reimbursement for spinal hardware being paid for outside the cost of the procedure, try Googling the following:
"Calderon and Drobot"

Political corruption, bribes, and kick backs --- just to keep the profits flowing for spinal hardware provided workers' compensation patients.

 

Nice article "Calderon and Drobot". Gives me even more confidence in the human race as well as a consideration into the genuine intent of your surgeon!!!! Like I have mentioned in other posts, is your surgeon practicing/treating Medicare and Medicaid and not the patient?????
So much for professionalism in "the medical trade". Bunch of Pretenders now days!