Payment incentive for the transition from traditional X-ray imaging to digital radiography

In the case of an imaging service that is an X-ray taken using film and that is furnished during 2017 or a subsequent year, the payment amount for such service (including the X-ray component of a packaged service) that would otherwise be determined under this section (without application of this paragraph and before application of any other adjustment under this subsection) for such year shall be reduced by 20 percent.

In the case of an imaging service that is an X-ray taken using computed radiography technology (as defined in section 1395w–4(b)(9)(C) of this title )—

(I) in the case of such a service furnished during 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, or 2022, the payment amount for such service (including the X-ray component of a packaged service) that would otherwise be determined under this section (without application of this paragraph and before application of any other adjustment under this subsection) for such year shall be reduced by 7 percent; and

(II) in the case of such a service furnished during 2023 or a subsequent year, the payment amount for such service (including the X-ray component of a packaged service) that would otherwise be determined under this section (without application of this paragraph and before application of any other adjustment under this subsection) for such year shall be reduced by 10 percent.

The reductions made under this subparagraph—

(I) shall not be considered an adjustment under paragraph (2)(E); and

(II) shall not be implemented in a budget neutral manner.

In order to implement this subparagraph, the Secretary shall adopt appropriate mechanisms which may include use of modifiers.