UCR 262: Government shutdown update, and  how to stop paying processing fees on payer payments.

October 10, 2025 

In this episode, Scott, Mark, and Ray Painter address two pressing topics for urology practices. First, they provide the latest update on the government shutdown, its impact on Medicare claims processing, and the timeline for when the CMS-mandated 10-day hold may be lifted. They also clarify that Medicare funding is not in jeopardy—this is purely an administrative delay related to expiring telehealth and COVID-era waivers.

Next, they tackle a listener-submitted question about hidden processing fees on payer payments—specifically, credit card reimbursements that reduce practice income by 3% or more. Mark shares practical recommendations, including switching to ACH/direct deposit to reduce costs, proactively managing PECOS and credentialing, and negotiating cost-of-living increases in payer contracts. They also explain the risks of neglecting PECOS updates and why contract management should be a routine business process—not a reactionary one.