Teaching Physician Supervision: Medicare's Ongoing Imperative for Academic Radiologists

OBJECTIVE. Medicare permits radiologists to bill for trainee work but only in narrowly defined circumstances and with considerable consequences for noncompliance. The purpose of this article is to introduce relevant policy rationale and definitions, review payment requirements, outline documentation and operational considerations for diagnostic and interventional radiology services, and offer practical suggestions for academic radiologists striving to optimize regulatory compliance. CONCLUSION. As academic radiology departments advance their missions of service, teaching, and scholarship, most rely on residents and fellows to support expanding clinical demands. Given the risks of technical noncompliance, institutional commitment and ongoing education regarding teaching supervision compliance are warranted.

Automated summary

This article discusses the specific circumstances in which Medicare allows radiologists to bill for trainee work, as well as the importance of compliance with payment requirements, documentation, and operational considerations for diagnostic and interventional radiology services. It also emphasizes the need for institutional commitment and ongoing education to ensure compliance with teaching supervision regulations in academic radiology departments.