Ventral hernia repair costs drop after reimbursement reform

Surgeons should note significant changes in costs following the January 2023 CMS reimbursement reform for ventral hernia repairs.

• Total episode spending decreased by $492 (7% reduction) compared to inguinal hernias.
• Professional reimbursements fell by $198 (20% reduction), while patient out-of-pocket costs decreased by $83 (10% reduction).

Consider how these changes may affect surgical practice and patient selection in the future.

• Facility reimbursements showed a slight increase in absolute terms but decreased when compared to inguinal cases.