RVU-based compensation is now used by over 70% of medical practices. Our work RVU calculator helps you:
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About RVU (2026)
What is a work RVU (wRVU)?
A work RVU (wRVU) measures the physician time, skill, effort, and stress involved in providing a medical service. It's the primary component used to calculate physician productivity and compensation in value-based care models. wRVU accounts for approximately 52% of the total RVU value.
How is work RVU calculated in 2026?
Work RVU is calculated using CMS Physician Fee Schedule data. Each CPT code has an assigned wRVU value based on physician work. Total wRVUs = wRVU per procedure × number of procedures performed. Our calculator uses the latest 2026 CMS data with conversion factor of $33.89.
What is the Medicare conversion factor for 2026?
The 2026 Medicare conversion factor is $33.89, updated from $33.29 in 2025. This converts total RVUs to actual payment amounts. Total payment = Total RVU × Conversion Factor. Geographic adjustments may apply based on location.
What's the difference between RVU and wRVU?
Total RVU includes three components: work RVU (wRVU) measures physician work (52% of total), practice expense RVU (PE) covers overhead costs (44% of total), and malpractice RVU (MP) covers liability insurance (4% of total). wRVU specifically measures the physician's work component.
How do I track physician productivity using wRVU?
Track wRVU by summing all services performed. Compare against specialty benchmarks: Family Medicine: 4,000-5,500 wRVU/year, Internal Medicine: 4,200-5,800, General Surgery: 6,000-8,000, Orthopedic Surgery: 8,000-12,000, Cardiology: 6,500-9,000, Radiology: 7,000-10,000 annually.
How accurate is this RVU calculator?
Our RVU calculator uses the latest 2026 CMS Physician Fee Schedule data and provides estimates within 1-2% of actual Medicare rates. Actual reimbursement may vary based on geographic adjustments and specific payer contracts.
Do private insurers use the same RVU values?
Most private insurers base their reimbursement on Medicare's RVU system but apply their own conversion factors and adjustments. Our calculator provides a baseline that can be adjusted for specific payer contracts.
How often are RVU values updated?
CMS updates the Physician Fee Schedule annually, with changes typically announced in November and implemented January 1st. Our calculator is updated with the latest values for 2026.