What is the definition of the Stark Law?

The Stark Law specifically refers to the regulation of physician self-referral, particularly prohibiting physicians from referring patients to receive certain health services payable by Medicare and Medicaid from entities with which they have a financial relationship, unless an exception applies. This law aims to reduce conflicts of interest and ensure that medical decisions are made based on patient needs rather than financial gain. It emphasizes the importance of transparent and ethical practices in healthcare, especially concerning referrals for services that could lead to increased costs for Medicare and Medicaid programs.

While the law does intersect with broader issues of healthcare fraud and kickbacks, its primary focus is on the financial arrangements between physicians and other entities, making physician self-referral the correct aspect to identify when defining Stark Law.