What is the common name for the laws that prohibit "self-referral" by physicians?

The Stark Act is the common name for the laws that specifically prohibit "self-referral" by physicians. This legislation is designed to prevent conflicts of interest in healthcare by restricting the ability of physicians to refer patients to facilities or services in which they have a financial interest. The main goal of the Stark Act is to ensure that medical decisions are made based on patient care and not influenced by financial incentives.

The law primarily applies to Medicare and Medicaid services and outlines strict rules for various types of referral practices, making it clear that self-referral can lead to unnecessary services and increased healthcare costs. By enforcing these regulations, the Stark Act aims to maintain the integrity of medical practices and ensure that patient welfare is prioritized over financial gain.

In contrast to the Stark Act, the other options focus on different aspects of healthcare law, such as the Anti-Kickback Statute, which addresses unlawful compensation arrangements, and other acts that target broader issues of healthcare fraud and modernization.