What are relative value conversion factors?
RVU conversion factors are monetary multipliers that convert relative value units (RVUs) into payment amounts. CFs are reported as dollar figures. They reflect healthcare practice costs in a particular office, group practice, healthcare institution or region. They take into account cost-drivers such as overhead (e.g., malpractice insurance), rent, salaries and the cost of living. For example, the CF in a West Coast region might be $6.50 while a CF in a rural state like South Dakota might be $5.25.
