Search Results for: medicare
Correct telehealth billing and coding can produce significant revenue for your practice. But in 2024 this will be harder than ever. Get proven tactics to more successfully bill and code telehealth services & get paid more.
Learn MoreGet payers to overturn more of your denied claims so that you can receive more of the reimbursement you are due. Expert reveals proven appeal letter writing strategies and templates to quickly get more of your denied claims paid.
Learn MoreCPT code 99211 can pay you more for nonphysician services – if you know how to use it correctly. Get the step-by-step guidance you need to correctly and compliantly use this valuable code to earn thousands more.
Learn MoreBoth commercial and government payers make provider enrollment more complex than it needs to be, but you’ve got an expert on your side. Get the proven tactics you need to providers approved faster and start getting paid sooner.
Learn MoreGet paid more for the chronic care management, remote patient monitoring and principal care management services you provide. Master 2024 code changes (99424-99427, 99439, 99454, 99457, 99490-91, etc.) during this online training.
Learn MoreThe Sunshine Act requires vendors to post provider financial relationship info before you see it. If it’s wrong, you must quickly identify and dispute errors to avoid being hit with the negative consequences. Training shows you how.
Learn MoreInpatient coding is more complicated every year. E/M rule changes and CPT adding services into 99221-99239, it’s even more difficult to get paid. Proven tactics help you select the right hospital E/M code with this expert training.
Learn MoreUsing your provider’s login to manage Medicare enrollment violates CMS rules. Enrollment expert, David J. Zetter, provides practical tactics to help you comply with CMS requirements for PECOS surrogacy management.
Learn MoreCMS is updating its enrollment system with Medicare PECOS 2.0, and if you want to continue being able to enroll and credential your providers, you must master the changes. Prep now with this exclusive sneak peek of the new system.
Learn MoreOffering professional courtesy discounts to fellow providers or discounting patient fees may be perfectly legal – if you do it right. During this online training, you’ll get the tools to avoid law violations and the penalties that follow.
Learn MoreNew Prior Authorization Final Rule markedly changes this complicated process. This expert-led online training helps you implement tactics today to improve patient care and the reimbursement you receive.
Learn MoreMedicare’s 855I enrollment form has changed again. This makes it harder than ever to navigate your provider enrollments and get paid. Get expert advice to master these changes during this 60-minute online training.
Learn MoreAbout 83% of your non-Medicare/Medicaid claims are governed by ERISA regulations. However, payers don’t want you to know how to apply these rules to take control of your reimbursement. This training shows you how.
Learn MoreAvoid violating Balanced Billing Laws with step-by-step advice from expert Rachel V. Rose, JD, MBA. She’ll help you head off preventable out-of-network, financial hardship, and write-off errors that can cost you millions in penalties.
Learn MoreIn 2024, Medicare will reimburse you $16 more per E/M visit if you correctly apply G2211 CPT code to your claims. But to do so, you must master new complicated rules. Get expert advice that will help you decipher how and when to apply G2211, along with other critical E/M changes.
Learn MoreCredentialing and enrollment 101 for physician practices. Step-by-step strategies to help you master credentialing and enrollment basics to avoid errors and ensure that your revenue keeps flowing.
Learn MoreAs of Jan. 1, 2024, marriage and family therapists (MFT) and mental health counselors (MHC) can qualify as Medicare providers. To make this happen, learn how to correctly submit their application in the PECOS enrollment system.
Learn MoreAvoid common/costly errors and meet requirements of provider credentialing and enrollment online sites with practical advice from national expert, Tracey Tokheim. Improve your accuracy and results while reducing headaches.
Learn MoreThe 2024 CMS Fee Schedule features a conversion factor cut, so you must master new codes like G2211 if you want to keep your income flowing. This online training session can help you keep bringing in cash.
Learn MoreMedicare provider enrollment application denials can lead to time-consuming, expensive delays in your reimbursement. Don’t let this happen to you. Use expert tactics from this exclusive online training to reduce enrollment denials.
Learn MoreWhen onboarding a new physician into your practice, your process must be flawless. A simple mistake can result in sever reimbursement delays – or worse, payer rule violations. With this online training you’ll get it right the first time.
Learn MoreCut through the confusion of when a Medicare ABN (Advance Beneficiary Notice) form is considered mandatory or voluntary. Get it wrong, and your practice could be hit with costly, time-consuming audits, recoupments, and fines.
Learn MoreThe rural health clinic billing rules are often mired in bureaucratic red tape — and if you don’t hit every step along the way, you won’t get paid. Discover the key billing and coding strategies that can help you boost pay with this expert training.
Learn MoreCMS has plowed through their appeals backlog, opening their doors to reimbursing your claims FASTER. Get expert tips on winning appeals strategies that convince Medicare and private payers to give you the cash you deserve.
Learn MoreProven strategies to help you reduce lost revenue from patient no shows without increasing your legal risk. Learn specifically what actions will and won’t get you into legal trouble as you work to reduce patient no shows.
Learn MoreCut through the confusion of incident-to supervision rules to boost your Medicare reimbursement for midlevel provider services. This online training will provide you with step-by-step tactics to comply and get paid more.
Learn MoreThe Supreme Court made major updates to how False Claims Act violations are identified, and if your practice isn’t ready, you could face massive fines. This expert online training will provide actionable strategies to stay compliant.
Learn MoreCMS revalidation rules are confusing. Get them wrong and you risk being deactivated from Medicare and not getting paid. This training walks you through the entire provider Medicare revalidation process and helps you get it right every time.
Learn MoreModifier 59 is among the most frequently used modifiers, but also one of the most often denied. Halt those denials and bring in the pay your practice deserves with these essential modifier tips.
Learn MoreBundling is a major source of denials, but you can fight back. This online training helps you overturn bad denials due to 2023 NCCI Edits and RVUs. Master the 2023 NCCI edits to reverse bad denials and improve your revenue.
Learn MoreGet paid more for treating patients with chronic pain – learn to correctly apply new 2023 codes G3002 & G3003. Online training shows you how to code these services (G3002/G3003) more accurately & get higher reimbursement.
Learn MoreIt is easy to violate the Anti-Kickback Law when referring patients to outside providers, facilities, or services. Even a simple referral mistake can lead to massive penalties. Get expert help to protect your practice from referral errors.
Learn MoreCombat non-Medicare and Non-Medicaid denials with proven ERISA appeal letter writing strategies. Online training helps you get more claims paid.
Learn MoreBefore you start charging patients extra for the additional time it takes to refill prescriptions, you must have a handle on how to implement these fees correctly. You can compliantly get paid for prescription refills – find out how.
Learn MoreCorrectly billing self-pay patients is more important now than ever. Self-pay patient numbers are rising due to the May 11 PHE expiration. This training will help comply with self-pay billing rules and keep you out of trouble with the Feds.
Learn MoreMedicare has unleashed RAC auditors to uncover errors and collect back improper payments (take your money). This training will help you prepare for and respond to a RAC audit to keep more of the money you’ve earned.
Learn MoreQuickly get more of your denied claims paid with proven payer appeal strategies. The key is mastering the nuances of your appeals process by cutting through the red tape. Find out how…
Learn MoreSplit/shared and incident-to billing rules have always been confusing, and they’re about to get even more vexing, due to new 2023 rules. Collect 15% more for your APP’s services by mastering the new rules during this training.
Learn MoreYou can stop providing administrative services to your patients for free. Many payers allow you to charge patients for these cash-only services if you do it compliantly. This expert-led online training will show you how.
Learn MoreYou can negotiate with third-party payers to increase your reimbursement – if you know how. This expert-leg online training will provide you with step-by-step contract negotiation strategies that word. Start getting paid more today.
Learn MoreComplying with recent changes when billing for out-of-network and uninsured patients is more complicated due to recent rule changes. Learn how to comply before the audits begin. Sign up for online training today.
Learn MoreUpdates to federal guidelines for 2023 mean it’s more important than ever to offer FREE translation services to an LEP patient. Master the new legal requirements to stay on the right side of the lawsuit.
Learn MoreAny number of simple daily tasks performed at your practice can easily lead to a False Claims Act violation and get you sued. This free online training, led by healthcare attorney, can help you protect your practice.
Learn MoreBilling for patients who have both Medicare and Medicaid is confusing. It’s easy to violate these complex federal & state regs and end up in a legal nightmare. Master how to stay compliant during this expert-led training.
Learn MoreMishandling an employee concern or complaint can turn them into a False Claims Act whistleblower. Get proven strategies to protect your practice from an FCA investigation and the massive penalties that can result. Register today.
Learn MoreGet the tactics you need to make utilizing the CMS PECOS online Medicare enrollment and credentialing system less confusing and more accurate. Attend this training for practical, expert advice so you get it right the first time.
Learn MoreBilling patient directly may be your best bet of getting paid for commercial payer non-covered services, but you should NEVER do so without the correct forms on file. Attend online training to master non-covered services billing.
Learn MoreHow you identify and code patient risk matters on your Medicare Advantage and ACA claims. Missing eligible diagnoses means you can be paid, and you can be paid thousands less than you deserve. Register today.
Learn MoreThe Stark law and Anti-Kickback Statute require DME prescribers and suppliers to walk a fine line. But if you implement tips from the OIG’s NEW guidance, you can avoid $25K+ fines or jail time that can impact even careful providers.
Learn MoreYou depend on accurate medical coding to keep your practice’s reimbursement flowing — and though it’s not vital for everyone to know HOW to code, it is important to get a basic understanding of coding to preserve your income.
Learn MoreOutpatient payer audits are skyrocketing in 2022. To survive you must be prepared. Get practical, real-word strategies to help you identify and resolve medical record hot zones in your practice – before you get audited.
Learn MoreIf your practice has made a compliance mistake, properly utilizing the OIG’s self-disclosure and refund procedures are essential to avoiding hefty penalties. Get step-by-step guidance to these processes in this online training.
Learn MoreIf you want to get paid, prior authorizations are a necessary evil. They put an intense burden on your practice, staff, patients, and you. You can reduce the time they take and improve your overall approval rate with some expert help.
Learn MoreMaster Medicare’s complex clinical trial billing requirements for practice-based services. This targeted, expert-led online training will help you reduce denials, improve reimbursement and avoid an audit.
Learn MoreYou don’t have to settle for the terms and payment amounts in your payer contracts. Implement these proven strategies to negotiate a better deal, keep the plans you what and know when it’s time to get out. Signup today.
Learn MoreOut-of-network collections are complicated. Successfully negotiating with payers, communicating with patients and getting paid what you are due is possible if you know how. Sign up for this expert-lead online training to find out how.
Learn MoreMaster proven strategies to get payors to overturn your contract deactivation. This expert-led online training will walk you through each step and help you head off lost patients by reactivating your contract.
Learn MoreIncorrect usage of your NPPES account is critical. You must comply with requirements to get your claims paid and avoid violation penalties. Learn to successfully register, maintain, and navigate through your NPPES profile.
Learn MoreOvercome Medicare Enrollment complexities and confusion when adding, reassigning and terminating providers from your practice. Find out how to get approved more quickly, avoid compliance violations and get paid faster.
Learn MoreYou are required to comply with Medicare Advantage overpayment regulations. This means you MUST be able to clearly identify overpayments, and correctly respond to avoid costly violation penalties.
Learn MoreImprove the reimbursement you receive from your Locum Tenens, Contracted and Fee-for-Time Providers with coding and billing tactics, provided by national expert, Lamon Willis, CHCO, CPCO, CPC-I, COC, CPC.
Learn MoreAvoid common CMS 1500 Claim Form error that lead to delayed payments or completely rejected claims. Expert biller provides you with step-by-step advice that will get you paid faster and more accurately.
Learn MoreSecurity Expert, Steve Wilder, BA, CHSP, STS, helps you shield your practice from everyday dangers with an easy to implement Hazard Vulnerability Assessment.
Learn MoreIncorrect Medicare ABN forms makes patients unhappy, and you unable to collect. How you communicate, estimate cost, and use modifiers is being watched. This payment protecting report teaches you to get it right.
Learn Moreto Improve Reimbursement
Learn how to more easily identify what is missing from your provider documentation and keeping your claims from getting paid. You’ll also and better communicate with them to get what you need. These skills will help you improve your patient record accuracy and ethically maximize your claim reimbursement.
Learn MoreYour practice is not immune to the devastation of a natural disaster. Don’t make the mistake of not being prepared. It’s not just about preparing for the event. There are actions you can take today to improve…
Learn MoreAs Medicare and private payers continue to go after reimbursement paid in error, the chances you’ll get audited has increased. Auditors can dig through your previously filed claims for a “look back period” of 6 YEARS…
Learn MoreEven if your Medicare claim appeal is denied (twice), you still have a chance to get your claim paid. The next level of appeal is called an Administrative Law Judge (AL J). Knowing whether you should request a…
Learn MoreUnder the Sunshine Act, vendors must post the names of every provider they have a financial relationship with — and this means even accepting lunch from a drug rep will land your name on the Open Payments list. If you find out your name is listed inaccurately, you can dispute it. The problem is that[...]
Learn MoreWhether you’ve coded a claim incorrectly, failed to justify medical necessity or made another error, you’re likely to receive a Medicare demand letter asking for money back in certain cases. Any time your MAC pays you $25 or more in excess of what they should have, you’re subject to the recovery and recoupment process, which[...]
Learn MorePractices are accustomed to enrollment and credentialing errors when it comes to Medicare, and these errors often lead to penalties, including lost pay. One way CMS is attempting to rectify this issue is with the recent debut of a new enrollment status called a “stay of enrollment.” Check out a few facts you must know[...]
Learn MoreMedicare’s PECOS 2.0 system for credentialing and enrolling your providers is expected to arrive this year, and if you aren’t ready for it when it goes into effect, you’ll be behind the eight ball. Check out a sneak peek of five PECOS 2.0 features you’ll need to master if you want your provider enrollment applications[...]
Learn MoreWhen CPT eliminated observation care designations from its coding lineup in 2023, some coders were puzzled about how to report same day admit and discharge situations, and the rules have only become more confusing as the calendar turned to 2024. After all, there are always going to be situations when patients are admitted to observation[...]
Learn MoreEvery practice knows that handling a prior authorization case load can be time-consuming and burdensome. Not only do payers require you to spend endless time filling out forms and even sitting on hold when you call, but they often end in erroneous denials. In fact, one OIG report found that an alarming 13% of Medicare[...]
Learn MoreSometimes it may feel like you’re navigating the G2211 coding and payment rules without much guidance, since CMS updates about how to report this E/M add-on have been sparse. Fortunately, one Part B MAC has come out with nearly a dozen FAQs that untangle several issues that coders have encountered since this code became payable[...]
Learn MoreEnrolling your new providers in the Medicare system can be tedious and time-consuming — and the responsibility usually falls to your back office staff, who are busy enough trying to maximize reimbursement. One way to streamline the Medicare provider enrollment process is to acquaint yourself with a few key strategies so you can significantly reduce[...]
Learn MoreRoutinely writing off out-of-network or government program copayments or deductibles without meeting individual financial hardship exceptions will most certainly land your practice in hot water with the OIG and insurers. That is, unless you know exactly how to comply with the fraud, waste and abuse laws about which charges you can write off. Check these three charges[...]
Learn MoreOnboarding a new provider takes a lot of legwork, from recruiting to contract negotiation and beyond. So it’s common to put a tremendous amount of effort into finalizing an employment agreement. What may fall through the cracks at that point, however, is a quick provider credentialing and enrollment process that could allow your practice to[...]
Learn MoreG2211 is one of the most eagerly-awaited codes of 2024, allowing your practice to collect an extra $16 from Medicare when you perform an E/M service for a patient whose ongoing care your doctor is providing. Practices that are counting on that extra pay to come through, however, should plan to wait just a bit[...]
Learn MoreNearly 2 million Americans identify as transgender, meaning their gender identity is different from what they were assigned at birth. If your practice sees a transgender patient — even if the visit isn’t related to gender transition services — you may need to know which diagnosis codes apply to the visit, and that’s not always[...]
Learn MoreWorking with an outsourced medical billing company can improve the workflow in your practice, allow you to take some of the work off of your team members and help bring in reimbursement faster. And according to one Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC), it can also put you at risk of reputational harm and HIPAA violations. Background:[...]
Learn MoreCoding for evaluation and management (E/M) services has gotten a lot more complicated over the past few years. From descriptor changes to code deletions, you may take longer than usual to code a hospital encounter. Your best bet in these situations is to consult the inpatient coding guidance straight from payers. Check out three common[...]
Learn MoreIt happens almost every day: Practices already stretched thin with their existing responsibilities are asked to send hundreds of medical records to auditors for “review.” The additional work and stress from the medical records request pushes practices to their limits and seems excessive to most practice managers. What recourse do you have for these voluminous[...]
Learn MoreIf you’ve ever coded a patient chart, you know about the LT (Left side) and RT (Right side) modifiers. Together, the RT and LT modifiers are used to show laterality — in other words, they describe which side of the body was addressed during a procedure or surgery, or if supplies are being prescribed. Check[...]
Learn MoreEvery coder knows that although most providers perform evaluation and management (E/M) services nearly every day, coding these visits aren’t necessarily straightforward. That fact is backed up by data in the latest CMS report, which notes that established patient E/M codes 99211-99215 were riddled with errors, most of which were due to upcoding. The facts: CMS published[...]
Learn MoreIt’s not often that CMS presents coders with a way to collect more for E/M visits, but in 2024, you’re about to benefit from a relatively new add-on code that allows you to do just that with the implementation of G2211 effective January 1. Discover the facts you must know if you want to collect[...]
Learn MoreTime and time again, the government has proven that no one is immune from accusations of healthcare fraud. Certainly not providers, but also coders, billers and office managers. Check out three cases of office managers who were accused of healthcare fraud, what the allegations were and how you can avoid similar issues. 1. MO Office[...]
Learn MoreIt can be unbelievably confusing to fill out your Medicare claims without making mistakes. But while errors are just a part of life in every other area, Medicare errors can be a different story. Auditors and reviewers are just waiting for you to put one wrong detail on your claims, allowing them to deny your[...]
Learn MoreOne of the most challenging aspects of handling an advance beneficiary notice (ABN form) is identifying when you MUST present it to your patient and when it’s considered “voluntary.” The line between these two seemingly similar situations could be what separates a paid claim from a denial. Get the facts on when an ABN form[...]
Learn MoreHandling payer contract negotiations is never simple, and one area that many practices find particularly stressful is how to respond when a payer immediately says “no” to the terms you’re interested in pursuing. Although it can be off-putting to deal with an insurer who doesn’t want to work within your required terms, there are ways[...]
Learn MoreIf your practice has been eagerly awaiting word from CMS about how Medicare payments would be calculated in 2024, the wait is over. The agency released its 2024 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule on November 2, and the provisions include a 3.4% lower conversion factor of $32.7375, updates to the telehealth rules, approval of using[...]
Learn MoreEvery practice knows that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) assigns its watchdog agency, the OIG, to review problematic issues at medical offices, and to investigate when warranted. Investigations may end up resulting in fines and penalties for practices, which is why it’s important to avoid these reviews if at all possible. One[...]
Learn MoreTelehealth has become such an important part of our lives that it’s now second nature for many medical practices. That doesn’t mean you can become complacent, however. The reality is that auditors are still scrutinizing telehealth claims to look for instances of wrongdoing, and several recent cases highlight how telehealth fraud scrutiny may even be[...]
Learn MoreUnless you engage a consultant or attorney to assist, it costs nothing to submit Medicare appeals, but it can net you big money because you’ve already performed the service — and you deserve to get paid for it. Many practices avoid appealing denials because it’s time consuming, but if you know the ropes about Medicare[...]
Learn MoreWhen a nonphysician practitioner (NPP) sees a Medicare patient at your practice, you can typically plan to collect a reduced rate compared to what a physician would receive for the same service. But one way you can avoid accepting 15% less pay for the same service is by utilizing incident to billing — if you[...]
Learn MoreIf your practice likes to get ahead of the curve, now’s the time to start getting to know the 2024 CPT codes. The American Medical Association (AMA) released the updated code set on September 8, revealing 230 new codes, 49 deletions and 70 revisions. Take a look at some of the highlights you’ll find as[...]
Learn MoreIt’s a common occurrence at medical practices: You submit a claim to the insurer and in return, you get a denial. You don’t want to absorb the cost of the service you’ve already provided, so your next step is to determine whether you can bill the patient directly. While patient billing may be a complex[...]
Learn MoreWorking in healthcare is stressful enough without having to track your appeals on the calendar — but staying on time and meeting appeal deadlines will be essential if you want a strong chance of payers reversing their denial decisions. Your best bet in setting up your insurance appeals for success will be to make sure[...]
Learn MoreBecause urine drug testing (UDT) codes don’t bring in massive reimbursement on a per-claim basis, many practices think the OIG isn’t paying much attention to these services — but that misconception can get you into trouble. In fact, the OIG frequently comes after practices that incorrectly report drug testing services, not only asking for refunds,[...]
Learn MoreWhen CMS debuted the JZ modifier last November, the agency gave practices until July 1 to start using it, allowing for a brief period so billers could get to know how the modifier worked. Unfortunately, some practices aren’t yet using modifier JZ, which could mean trouble starting in October—at which point Medicare payers will start[...]
Learn MoreIf your practice is under investigation by the OIG, there’s a chance you may face penalties and sanctions for whatever wrongdoing the feds find. For some providers, this may mean facing the threat of exclusion from the Medicare program, or entering into a corporate integrity agreement (CIA). You’ll need to have an attorney well-versed in[...]
Learn MoreHandling health insurance contract negotiations can give any practice manager a headache. There’s so much to remember, including which terms to avoid, who your contact should be at the payer organization, which rates work best, and much more. Among the issues that many practices struggle with is how often to renegotiate with payer sources. Read[...]
Learn MoreAs many practices are aware, the split/shared billing rules changed earlier this year, and are in for an even bigger overhaul starting January 1st. If your practice is trying to get ahead of the curve, now is a great time to get a handle on what will change in 2024 and what you’ll need to[...]
Learn MoreWhen your E/M visit lasts longer than expected and you want to account for your provider’s additional time, you might reach for a prolonged service code. Just be sure to double-check which code pairs you report together, because the recovery audit contractors (RACs) are watching. Background: Earlier this year, Part B RAC Cotiviti added a[...]
Learn MoreWhen most businesses look to the future, they envision income and revenue rising incrementally over time, and medical practices are no exception. However, the results of a new survey show that when adjusted for inflation, Medicare physician pay dropped 22 percent between 2001 and 2021. That’s the word from the 2023 Physician Compensation Report by[...]
Learn MoreThe end of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) is now behind us, and the discontinuation of certain PHE policies spans far beyond COVID-19 tests and vaccinations. In fact, the PHE’s end also has compliance considerations that every practice must know. Among these are vast changes to the Stark law and the ending of blanket[...]
Learn MoreIf your practice is like most, you’ve faced myriad headaches dealing with Medicare Advantage (MA) denials. In some cases, even when MA plans approve prior authorizations for certain services, you end up facing denied claims. Thanks to a new rule, however, that issue should go away in January. Background: On April 5, CMS issued a[...]
Learn MoreEver since the public health emergency (PHE) began during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, practices have gotten accustomed to the adjusted rules and regulations, which have included more telehealth flexibilities than ever before. However, when the PHE ends on May 11, many of those provisions will go away. Find out which telehealth PHE[...]
Learn MoreMany practices are so busy trying to incorporate new CPT codes into their systems at the beginning of a new year that they may not notice other codes that have rolled out. Such has been the case for some providers this year, who focused so strongly on the changes to the E/M code set that[...]
Learn MoreNo one likes to get a claim denial from Medicare. You have a few options in this situation: Either appeal the claim or eat the cost of the denied service. In most cases, filing Medicare appeals will allow you to boost the odds of getting paid, but you must avoid these five common pitfalls. 1.[...]
Learn MorePerhaps your practice has had success charging for no-shows or sports physical form completions—or maybe you’re just starting to investigate which administrative fees you might explore. Either way, there are many factors to consider if you’re thinking of charging administrative fees, but before you dot your I’s and cross your T’s, you might want to[...]
Learn MoreThe Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) affects about 83 percent of the non-Medicare and non-Medicaid claims filed every day by hospitals and physician offices. The employer that sponsors the insurance plan cannot be any form of government or church. When ERISA Applies to Claims However, there may be instances when a patient is employed[...]
Learn MoreWhen a recovery audit contractor (RAC) decides to audit your practice, you must cooperate, or you can be excluded from Medicare or cut off from reimbursement. It’s also important not to panic. As long as you have a RAC preparation strategy, your audit should go smoothly. Get ready for recovery audit contractors with these seven[...]
Learn MoreIf you were curious about whether the OIG had stepped up Medicaid audits as the pandemic’s effects began to wane, it’s time to stop wondering. The agency finalized 1,327 convictions last year, recovering $1.1 billion during 2022. And even though many practices equate audits solely with Medicare, the latest OIG report confirms the fact that[...]
Learn MoreEverybody makes mistakes, but when it’s CMS creating the error, it can create ripple effects through your practice. Hopefully, the agency’s latest mistake provides your practice with a benefit rather than a headache. At issue is the time threshold that must be met to report code G0316, which represents prolonged inpatient/observation care for Medicare patients.[...]
Learn MoreAs every medical practice staffer is aware, dealing with insurance companies, chasing down copays and processing denials can cause hours of wasted time. This has led some providers to consider transitioning their practices to a concierge model, where patients pay a fee (typically either annually or monthly) for membership. Although there are some options allowing[...]
Learn MoreNavigating the telehealth billing rules can be fraught with confusion, even though you’ve been using the pandemic guidelines for nearly three years now. And with Annual Wellness Visits (AWVs) on the telehealth billing list, you must be careful to thoroughly document all of the elements, just as you would when patients are in the office.[...]
Learn MoreWhen a patient calls your practice for the first time, you have about 60 seconds to make a first impression. And although your words count, only 16% of their impression of you is based on the words you use. The other 84% involves your tone of voice and other factors. To boost your phone skills[...]
Learn MoreMedical practices may see Medicare and Medicaid patients every day. What could be less common at your practice, however, is a patient who has both Medicaid and Medicare, known as a qualified Medicare beneficiary (QMB). All Medicare providers—not just those that accept Medicaid—are prohibited from charging QMB patients for cost-sharing. If you’re in this category[...]
Learn MoreAlthough most medical practices have become accustomed to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) being continually extended, it was clear that eventually would end—and now it seems that time will arrive. The Biden Administration announced last week that the PHE will be extended through May 11, at which point it will permanently expire, marking the[...]
Learn MoreCompleting Medicare enrollments and revalidations has been a headache for practices over the past several years, due to a complicated process and a slow approval system. As practices have complained, CMS has been listening, and the agency aims to fix that issue with the debut of PECOS 2.0 this June. Read on to discover some[...]
Learn MoreAs patients grow increasingly savvy about researching healthcare prices, they’re more likely to ask practices for discounts that apply to anything from office visits and radiology services to surgeries and dental procedures. As many practices are aware, not all discounts are created equal—some are legal, while others are not. Fortunately, prompt pay discounts are allowable[...]
Learn MoreEvery coder knows that although most providers perform evaluation and management (E/M) services nearly every day, coding these visits aren’t necessarily straightforward. That fact is backed up by data in the latest CMS report, which notes that E/M codes 99202-99215 were responsible for more than $1 billion in improper payments during the most recent 12-month[...]
Learn MoreOne of the simplest and fastest ways to keep reimbursement flowing at your practice is to ensure your provider enrollment and credentialing processes never face any hiccups. After all, if you don’t get your providers enrolled and credentialed swiftly, they could be terminated from payer networks and dropped from hospital admitting rolls. Plus, you’ll be[...]
Learn MoreMedical practices have become accustomed to hearing about cuts to Medicare pay every year, so it’s always good news when Medicare begins covering a new service. Such is the case this year, now that CMS has introduced two new Medicare-specific codes covering chronic pain management. Before you can start collecting for the newly-released chronic pain[...]
Learn MoreIt’s a question that has confounded coders and practice managers for years: What do you do if you see a patient in your office, then admit them to the hospital because the condition requires more acute attention? Reporting two evaluation and management codes representing the different sites of service has not been an option in[...]
Learn MoreNo medical practice wants to be the target of a False Claims Act (FCA) accusation. Penalties for violating the FCA include fines of up to $11,000 per claim, attorney costs, exclusion from Medicare, and having to pay back triple the damages that the government incurs. But if you want to avoid FCA accusations, your best[...]
Learn MoreIs your practice reporting advance care planning (ACP) properly? If you’re like the majority of practices that the OIG recently audited, you’re probably documenting these incorrectly, which could mean you’ll need to pay money back to Medicare. Here’s why: A recent OIG audit revealed that out of 691 ACP services they reviewed, 466 didn’t comply[...]
Learn MoreThe Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) governs how your practice must communicate to your employees about such topics as your health insurance plan and your retirement benefits. If your practice doesn’t abide by the law, you could face massive civil and criminal penalties, so it’s essential to stay on top of the requirements. One[...]
Learn MoreOne audit type that’s always looming over medical practices involves Recovery Audit Contractors (RACs). These organizations are appointed by each MAC to uncover, confirm, and take back reimbursements Medicare made in error. Because they get paid a percentage of what they recover from medical practices, RACs are sometimes referred to as Medicare’s “bounty hunters.” Recovery[...]
Learn MoreWhen an advanced practice provider (APP) sees patients at your practice, your payer will reimburse you at 85 percent of the fee schedule amount—unless you bill using the incident-to rules, which can net you the whole fee schedule amount. To submit your claims under incident-to, you must ensure that the physician created the initial plan[...]
Learn MoreMedicare reimbursement likely makes up a large portion of your practice’s income, which means you can’t afford to forfeit that revenue stream. One simple way to keep that income flowing into your practice is to complete your Medicare revalidations by the due date. If you miss a Medicare revalidation deadline, you’ll likely end up excluded[...]
Learn MoreMost practices know the ropes of using an Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN) of Non-Coverage: When a service might be denied and you want Medicare patients to understand what their financial responsibility may be, you have them sign the ABN. But what happens when you see a patient who has Medicare Advantage rather than a Part[...]
Learn MoreIf you’re among the medical practice staffers who groan when it’s time to review managed care contracts, that could be because you know payers bury confusing language into the documents. One step to understanding what these contracts say is to break down each section and look for key phrases that can help you reduce confusion[...]
Learn MoreEvery practice experiences situations from time to time when they must terminate the physician-patient relationship. However, you can’t cut ties with even the most difficult patients until you first evaluate your legal obligations. In some cases, termination of the relationship is not a possibility due to medical credentialing or legal guidelines that require the provider[...]
Learn MoreIf your practice is like most, you’ve been busily working to add the 2023 ICD-10-CM codes to your electronic health records and superbills to prepare for the Oct. 1, 2022 implementation date. But one area that many practices may not have spent much time absorbing involves the ICD-10 Z codes that are new this year.[...]
Learn MoreAs many medical practices are aware, Durable Medical Equipment (DME) fraud is running rampant, and you could be pulled into a case even if you didn’t knowingly violate the Stark law or Anti-Kickback Statute. Why? Because a DME supplier who violates these laws could present your provider’s DME prescriptions as evidence to shift liability away from[...]
Learn MoreAs part of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Medicaid auditors are eager to come after potential instances of fraud or abuse that could cost you a fortune in fines, penalties and exclusions if you aren’t careful. Check out several areas that Medicaid auditors are targeting, and find out how you can stay[...]
Learn MoreTo keep reimbursement flowing into your practice, you must understand how to complete an Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN) of Non-Coverage. But having a high success rate with your ABNs goes beyond filling out the fields correctly. You must also use the right paper size, font, and ink color, or you may end up having to[...]
Learn MoreEvery medical practice has been there: You get a notification from an insurer that your claim is being denied, downcoded, or held for more information. In many cases, this can mean thousands in lost reimbursement for a service you’ve already provided. Therefore, your best bet is to appeal inappropriate denials so you can recoup the[...]
Learn MoreIf you’re among the practices that still don’t have a no show policy in place yet, you’re probably losing thousands every year. No-shows have an estimated $150 billion annual industry impact, and the average practice loses $200 per every unused time slot. This means if one patient misses an appointment every day, you lose $52,000[...]
Learn MoreAs a practice manager, you are responsible for making sure that everything in your medical office runs smoothly, and that includes getting paid. The only way to do this is for you to have at least a basic understanding of how medical coding works, why payers hold it in such importance, and why it’s so[...]
Learn MoreEffective Oct. 1, 2022, you must start reporting the new 2023 ICD-10-CM codes — and with more than 1,000 new diagnosis coded added to your available options, you’ll want to use that time wisely to be completely sure you are ready. As you know, CPT codes answer the “what happened?” question when you see a patient.[...]
Learn MoreYou can get paid for the additional services provided by your medical assistants and registered nurses provide. The amount depends on the number of non-physician staff you employ. For a small practice, this can equal as much as $20K more per year. To access this additional reimbursement, you must correctly utilize CPT code 99211 for[...]
Learn MoreCorrectly billing your non-physician practitioner (NPP) services as incident to under your physician’s National Provider Identifier (NPI) number has various benefits to your practice. The most significant benefit of complying with incident to billing rules is that the services can be paid at 100% of the physician fee schedule (15% higher than billing directly under[...]
Learn MoreWhen a patient asks for copies of their medical records, you are required to give them to them – even if they can’t afford to pay the standard fees you charge for duplication. Balancing a patient’s right to access their medical records with your desire to cover your costs for the extra time and effort[...]
Learn MoreAs a practice that accepts Medicare and Medicaid, you are required to know the exemption status of your candidates, employees, and vendors. Failure to do so can have dire consequences, such as significant fines, loss of your ability to bill Medicare and Medicaid, and even jail time (in extreme cases). Even an innocent mistake can[...]
Learn MoreMedicare enrollment and validation processes are complicated and frustrating enough when things are straightforward (which they rarely are). But when you run into multiple Provider Transaction Access Numbers (PTANs) attached to one of your providers’ National Provider Identifier (NPI), things can get really difficult. Failure to identify and resolve instances where additional PTANs have crept[...]
Learn MoreDon’t forget that pharmaceutical reps have an agenda. When they bring lunch for your entire office or offer your doctor tickets to a sold-out event, it may seem like they are just being nice, but they are trying to influence prescribing habits. The consequences of accepting freebies from drug reps can be significant if you[...]
Learn MoreQ: We have a member of our administrative staff who refuses to get the COVID vaccine. However, she doesn’t qualify for a vaccine exemption. As an alternative to being vaccinated, the employee has requested that her position be 100% remote. This is not something we believe is a viable option. Are we required to comply[...]
Learn MoreCMS has good news for you and your patients regarding the telehealth mental health care you’ve provided since the pandemic: Medicare will continue to reimburse for these services for at least two more years. Originally, the addition of reimbursement for telehealth mental health services was temporary due to COVID, and expected to expire at the[...]
Learn MoreNote: The information in this post was accurate as of December 17, 2021. CMS vaccine mandate. The CMS vaccine mandate is back on in 26 states – sort of. On Wednesday, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals issued a decision partially reversing a nationwide injunction on the rule that required staff of many Medicare- and[...]
Learn MoreThe November 3rd release of CMS’ 2022 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) is chock full of changes that have the potential to significantly modify how you bill and receive payment next year. Unfortunately, one of the most disappointing changes is that Congress has decided not to renew the additional 3.75% conversion factor rate added during[...]
Learn MoreOn October 3rd, CMS announced that it is resuming Medicare revalidations of provider enrollment information in the PECOS system in October 2021. If you are an existing Medicare provider and missed your revalidation due date because of the Public Health Emergency (PHE) deferral, CMS will be implementing these in phases. Effective October 31st, Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) and National Supplier[...]
Learn MoreThe Answer: Yes, you can charge your self-pay patients less, as long as you don’t break federal Medicare laws when doing it. Knowing how and when to apply a discount and write-off for a self-pay patient is essential to your practice. It can reduce your risk of violating Medicare and other federal laws – including the[...]
Learn MoreAlthough it's common to charge patients a no-show fee to deter missed appointments, there is more to it than just modifying your office policies. No-Show Fees. If implemented incorrectly, charging a no-show fee can increase your risk of violating payer contracting rules, and result in higher losses than the original missed appointments. It’s vital that[...]
Learn MoreYou only have a few weeks to fully implement the 2022 ICD-10-CM coding guideline changes by the October 1st deadline. ICD-10-CM coding guideline. It is essential that you apply the 2022 outpatient diagnosis code updates correctly the first time. Failure to do so can lead to denied claims and a halt to your reimbursement. Not to mention the[...]
Learn MoreCMS’ Identity and Access Management System (I&A) allows you to manage your providers’ Medicare enrollments and related online activities more easily and efficiently. Until a few years ago, you were required to have a separate username and password for each of the CMS’ online systems necessary to ensure your Medicare enrollments and reimbursement. To compound[...]
Learn MoreChoosing the wrong Medicare participation status for your provider can have significant financial consequences for your practice. Your choices are a Medicare Participating Provider (PAR) or a Medicare Non-Participating Provider (non-PAR). If you make the wrong choice, your allowable reimbursement can be limited, or you can end up unable to get paid by Medicare at[...]
Learn MorePlease Note: Effective October 1st, 2021, CMS will restart Medicare revalidations for providers and supplies. Prior to this, revalidations were put on hold due to the COVID health emergency. To determine if you have an pending or upcoming provider revalidation you can utilize Medicare's Revalidation List online. medicare revalidation lookup. Although Medicare has put a temporary[...]
Learn MorePlease Note: Effective October 1st, 2021, CMS will restart Medicare revalidations for providers and supplies. Prior to this, revalidations were put on hold due to the COVID health emergency. To determine if you have an pending or upcoming provider revalidation you can utilize Medicare's Revalidation List online. medicare revalidation lookup. As a leader in your practice,[...]
Learn MoreOn April 21, 2021, the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) renewed the Medicare telehealth requirement waivers that were implemented last year during the pandemic. The new expiration date for these relaxed rules is set for the end of July. This means you have a little while longer to take advantage of these telehealth[...]
Learn MoreCMS pays a False Claims Act whistleblower between 15% and 30% of any monies collected on the claims they submit. It’s no wonder that the Justice Department reports that 98% of all healthcare False Claims Act (FCA) cases are whistleblower-initiated. What this means is that every one of your employees is a potential whistleblower. In[...]
Learn MoreCMS rules do not allow you to use your provider’s login credentials to manage their Medicare enrollment and ongoing revalidations in PECOS (Provider Enrollment, Chain, and Ownership System). There is a more efficient, compliant process you should be using to manage this. PECOS login. To be compliant, you must set up a PECOS login surrogacy[...]
Learn MoreWhether you’re enrolling your provider with Medicare for the first time or responding to a revalidation request, knowing how to correctly utilize CMS’ Provider Enrollment, Chain, and Ownership System or PECOS Medicare enrollment system is essential. What is the PECOS Medicare Enrollment system, anyway? PECOS is an internet-based enrollment process that provides you with an[...]
Learn MoreUpdate Notice: 2021 prolonged service changes. Important: This information was updated for accuracy on April 28th, 2021. The guidelines for counting total time for CPT code 99417 were revised to bring clarity around what can be included regarding patient education during a patient visit. You’ll find this update in the “Add Direct Plus Certain Indirect[...]
Learn MoreMake no mistake—your employees are being encouraged by CMS to report any suspected Medicare fraud. Whistleblower complaints. CMS offers an incentive to complainants of between 15% to 30% of any money they collect based on the data reported. So, depending on the extent of the violation, this can easily add up to a significant financial[...]
Learn MoreAlthough last year’s pandemic put a brief pause on Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) audits — this year they are once again in full swing. Auditors are picking up the pace to make up for lost time. So, your chances of getting audited are higher than ever before. What is a RAC Audit? RAC audits are[...]
Learn MoreInterchanging the terms credentialing and enrollment is a surefire way for your provider reimbursement to take a serious hit. The problem is that there is definitely overlap between them. Ultimately, however, having a solid understanding of each process and knowing the differences between provider enrollment and credentialing is the only way to more efficiently and[...]
Learn MoreThe January 2021 updated OIG Work Plan makes it clear that the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is paying attention to surgical modifier 62. The Work Plan states.billing modifier 62. “…we plan to audit a sample of claim line items specifically where different physicians billed for the same co-surgery procedure code, for the same[...]
Learn MoreAfter a year of constant updates, the rule changes for telehealth coding have “finally” been finalized in the 2021 Physician Fee Schedule final rule. Keep reading to ensure you’re getting paid for every service—including the newly reimbursable telehealth codes. CMS Adds Services to Telehealth List. Beginning January 1, 2021, the list of services reimbursable when[...]
Learn MoreA practice relocation is a huge endeavor! To ensure continuity of patient care — and maintain positive cash flow — you can’t afford to forget even one minor detail. Use these tips to help you prepare for a seamless transition to your new practice location. Update Credentials Before Practice Relocation While much of your credentialing[...]
Learn MoreYou MUST use a totally different system to get paid and code for COVID-19 vaccine administration; unlike other vaccines that use generic administration CPT codes, coronavirus vaccine reporting requires unique codes. Get up to speed now on the available vaccines and how to report them correctly from your very first claim without over billing. There[...]
Learn MoreQUESTION: We experienced an increase in Coordination of Benefits (COB) issues with Medicare last year. We finally found out there was a “glitch” in their system. The previous accident claim information was populating the primary insurance field. It took us quite a while to recover from this. What can we do to avoid issues like[...]
Learn MoreYour referrals, value-based arrangements, and physician compensations can land you with huge penalties unless you meet all of the 2021 Stark Law requirements that went into effect January 19th, 2021 Make just one error, and you’ll be fined $25,000-$50,000 per violation – you can even be excluded from Medicare and Medicaid. CMS and OIG have[...]
Learn MoreHHS recently extended the Public Health Emergency (PHE) into January 2021, keeping the 1135 waivers — including licensing requirements — in place, for now. While there is no definitive expiration date for the waivers, one thing is certain — these waivers will end, and if you’re not prepared you could lose your license. 1135 Waivers[...]
Learn MoreThe government is throwing you another bone to dig out from all of your pandemic losses and operating expenses. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced an additional $20 billion for provider relief phase 3 funding. But with a short deadline, your chance for securing additional or first-time money is running out! HHS[...]
Learn MoreWhen the CMS and private payers COVID-19 cost-sharing waivers expire in the next weeks and months, it’s imperative that you restart collecting deductibles and copays. If you fail to update your billing policies, you’ll leave thousands of dollars on the table – and you could even violate claims and kickback laws. Since Medicare and most[...]
Learn MoreYou’ve been anticipating the CPT 2021 E/M coding changes and holding your breath on whether your payers will follow suit. Now with the 2021 proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule you can count on at least your MAC to align its coding and payment rules with AMA’s rehauled guidelines. The updates will shake up your E/M[...]
Learn MoreYou suspected that the government money you accepted from the HHS Emergency Relief Fund came with strings attached but you may not have realized how hard grasping the details would be. Your practice could be one of the many new ones that has mandatory reporting requirements based on a new HHS August notification. Find out[...]
Learn MoreYour telephone, telehealth exam, and virtual check-in pay could come to a grinding halt unless you’re up to date on the latest potentially upcoming changes to the 2021 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. Auditors will be checking to see if you tightened your regulations for coding, compliance and more. Prep your practice now on the top[...]
Learn MoreThe Medicare Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN) form is only one page long, but accurately completing the process can be as tedious as waiting for the repair man to show up. And it’s really critical that you take the time to get each step right, or you’ll be faced with increased write-offs and could even land[...]
Learn MoreRetaining medical records for even one patient for the required amount of time is really confusing because there are so many laws you need to follow. But you must keep medical records long enough for all of your patients to protect yourself against hefty FCA violations (up to $50,000 a piece!) and other compliance penalties.[...]
Learn MoreIt’s now official: your telehealth services are on CMS’ radar. The Office of Inspector General (OIG) just announced that it will start reviewing claims for specific violations. The last thing you want to do is pay back money for incorrect telehealth reporting. But that’s exactly what could happen if you don’t tighten up your telehealth[...]
Learn MoreWhile it may seem a little unfair, patients can switch providers—no questions asked—with nothing more than a call to your practice asking to have records transferred. Unfortunately, when you’re the one making the split, terminating a patient-physician relationship isn’t so cut and dry—think abandonment lawsuit and medical malpractice. Before You Terminate a Patient... There are[...]
Learn MoreQUESTION: Our patients really love the convenience and safety of telehealth, and we are planning to continue offering the services long-term. Can you provide us with some clarification on how to use CPT code 99441-99443 vs 99201-99215 when the video exam is not straightforward? Some example include: What if there are technical issues and the[...]
Learn MoreYou could be fined up to $11,000 for each false item or service you submit to Medicare. That means, your total penalty amount could be HUGE – reaching into the millions as it did for one physician practice. Halt massive penalties from crippling your practice by fixing these common medical billing fraud and abuse errors.[...]
Learn MoreMake no mistake! Setting up and maintaining the accuracy of each of your physician's National Provider Identifier (NPI) is essential and COMPLEX. Any error on your NPI application will result in your reimbursement being delayed and a hit to your practice’s cash flow. As a Medicaid/Medicare provider, you are required to obtain a NPI to[...]
Learn MoreGetting your practice back on firm financial footing post-lockdown will take more than just calling patients to reschedule canceled appointments. Although the U.S. is reopening, many patients still don’t feel comfortable visiting your practice, unless they absolutely have to. What’s the long-term solution? More virtual services and non-face-to-face care into your practice workflows may be[...]
Learn MoreUpdate Notice: This content was updated to reflect the 2021 CPT code changes for Chronic Care Management. Specifically, the update includes the replacement of code G2058 with code 99439 and the nuances surrounding the change. The updates to this article are indicated in blue to make them easy to identify. Chronic Care Coding. As your chronic[...]
Learn MoreQUESTION: Our patients have really responded to the telehealth services that we introduced to help extend care during the height of COVID-19. We still provide more than 50% of our services via telehealth. Are payers going to extend the telehealth waivers, or will it become more difficult to provide these virtual services? Milwaukee, WI Subscriber[...]
Learn MoreYou can add thousands of dollars in revenue for your telephone calls (99441-99443) thanks to new CMS rules. Pre-coronavirus, these codes netted a big fat $0. But now Medicare is paying up to $110 for a 30-minute call if you get your billing right. To capture this added payment fast without facing improper claims penalties,[...]
Learn MoreNew CMS rules have expanded your reimbursement opportunities for new patient and telehealth services your registered nurses and medical assistants previously provided for free. The catch is, that if you want to be paid you must know exactly when and how to accurately apply CPT code 99211. Follow these updated Medicare eligibility and incident to[...]
Learn MoreIn a few short months, COVID-19 has turned your practice day-to-day upside down – clinically, operationally and financially. At least now there is light at the end of the tunnel. Whether you closed your practice completely, or were working on an abbreviated schedule, the decisions you make over the next few weeks will have a[...]
Learn MoreProviding routine patient care under COVID-19 restrictions has been a delicate balance. While following physical distancing and infection control safeguards, you also have to protect your bottom line. These three strategies will help your practice more successfully offer Medicare annual wellness visits (AWV) and preventive services in new ways to restore your finances and provide[...]
Learn MoreQUESTION: I have been using my providers’ PECOS (Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System) passwords and logins to update their Medicare and Medicaid enrollments. When I submit their information, the required signature at the end indicates that I am the practitioner, when I’m clearly not. Should we consider handling updating enrollments a different way? Question[...]
Learn MoreQUESTION: Medicare already covers a physician telephone call with G2012. With the recent virtual care coding changes, should I now use 994xx instead? Subscription question from Bangor, Maine ANSWER: CMS made CPT telephone call codes (99441-99443) payable as of March 1, 2020, and increased their reimbursement to make them equivalent to mid-level established patient office[...]
Learn MoreQUESTION: We are interested in applying for loans from the CARES Act. While researching the options, we read that the funds are restricted to practices that are providing care for patients with COVID-19. We are an orthopedic practice and caring for patients who may have COVID-19. However, we are not testing patients for the virus.[...]
Learn MoreStay-at-home orders and mandates to delay elective procedures have significantly reduced patient volume at your practice. To justify paying your staff, you need to quickly find ways for them to remain productive during COVID-19. Between pandemic stress and less work to do, your staff could easily settle into an unproductive rut. But there are ways[...]
Learn MoreIf your practice is testing patients for COVID-19, you’ve got a bunch of new codes and payment rules that you need to follow, so you get paid on time, every time – without violating kit reimbursement law. In the past few weeks, CMS has released a significant amount of guidance on COVID-19 coding and co-pay[...]
Learn MoreQUESTION: We are really confused on the constant telehealth regulatory changes. Our providers understand that new codes qualify with less supervision – and even without audio. We have several elderly patients who require ongoing care. Can you provide us with some recent options for CMS paid telehealth so we can continue to care for our[...]
Learn MoreAlthough COVID-19 has been a significant burden on your practice, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act offers financial lifelines to help you keep running until things get back to normal. Here’s a quick rundown on some of the key advanced payments and small business loans, and funding options available to your practice:[...]
Learn MoreJust when you thought you got your head semi-wrapped around Medicare telemedicine rules, they go and throw it out the window! On March 30, CMS issued an Interim Final Rule and released new guidance on how to code and bill for rapidly evolving telehealth services. Before you file another claim, here are the three sweeping[...]
Learn MoreYour head is spinning as you try to recommend remote service solutions to your providers. To make an intelligent presentation to your doctors, you need to do some homework, so you’re getting the coverage you expect and avoiding hot-water regulations. Get a jump start with expert practice management and reimbursement tips from nationally-recognized coding and[...]
Learn MoreKnowing how to correctly code, bill and get paid for remote services (telemedicine) might be the only way your practice can continue to provide services to your patients without risking the spread of COVID-19. Telehealth services reimbursement has become an overnight necessity for many practices with the recent highly-infectious coronavirus outbreak. The challenge is that[...]
Learn MoreQUESTION: The telehealth rules indicate the service must be patient initiated. What does this mean? We are a pulmonology specialty group and are considering seeing new patient referrals and established patients by Skype. How can the new patient visits meet the office visits’ exam requirements? [...]
Learn MoreWith telemedicine rules changing daily, you've got to have a solid foundation in telehealth guidelines, so you can make the most of adding these services compliantly to boost your pay during the COVID-19 pandemic. To help healthcare practices treat more patients virtually, Congress passed legislation that allowed the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services[...]
Learn MoreQUESTION: What do educators mean by mandatory vs voluntary ABN? Is it the same form? Question from Long Island, NY Subscriber ANSWER: To secure payments and prevent audits, you must have your patients sign a Medicare Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN) form. Don't risk fines and face write-offs by not issuing the form[...]
Learn MoreAs the coronavirus international spread increases, CMS and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are helping you get ready for cases at your practice with new HCPCS and ICD-10-CM specific codes. To help prepare providers, labs, and facilities to respond to the threat of the 2019-Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), CMS and the CDC created[...]
Learn MoreCompleting a Medicare provider enrollment application correctly the first time can make the difference between revenue flowing in – or not getting your provider’s services paid until months if at all later. You’ve got to be on top of the entire complicated, deadline-laden Medicare provider enrollment process to prevent delayed or lost reimbursements. Speed through[...]
Learn MoreWhen documenting medical records, CMS has two sets of established evaluation management (E/M) documentation guidelines that will be replaced in 2020. You’ve got to understand the key foundations of the current guidelines to be able to learn and understand the upcoming replacement rules – or risk facing thousands in overpayments. E/M codes will change for[...]
Learn MoreAn easy way to add $122 per patient per month for services you already offer is to capture 2020's new and revised CPT codes for remote patient monitoring. But be sure you can keep your hard earned money by reporting compliant, documentation supported claims. With the increasing amount of patients having wearable devices such as[...]
Learn MoreWhether patients are bringing pets to your office because it's trendy or a medical necessity is not for you — or anyone in your practice — to decide. You need to understand the ADA service dog laws and implement a clear office policy to educate your staff and protect your practice from a blow to[...]
Learn MoreYour patients with chronic back pain will be thrilled to know that CMS now offers reimbursement for acupuncture services. But to unlock pay, you must follow several coverage rules or else you'll be stuck having to write off the service or collect the pay from the patient. Select 987810-987814 Based on Type and Duration Look[...]
Learn MoreThe False Claims Act makes you – and your provider – responsible for medical billing errors and misbilling claims even if you use a billing company. The massive fines – more than $20,000 per violation – can cripple your practice. This quick start guide gives you key ways to prevent accidentally misbilling claims so your[...]
Learn MoreBecause your healthcare practice is subject to strict regulations and privy to sought after data, you can’t afford to hire a risky candidate. A compliant healthcare background check is just what you need to screen applicants, verify their credentials, and reduce your financial liability. Pick the Right Types of Healthcare Background Checks You Need Companies[...]
Learn MoreThe recently released 2020 CMS Telemedicine Policy Final Rule’s changes just went into effect on January 1. Topping the list of improvements are new HCPCS codes, greater flexibility with telehealth location, and more telehealth benefit options. Count Home as Originating Site and 2 Other Sweeping 2020 CMS Telemedicine Changes This major final rule revises payment[...]
Learn MoreIf your physicians participate in Medicare Advantage Plans, keep a sharp eye on the mail. The final Medicare Advantage Overpayments letter is being mailed to practices the first week of January, and it contains a time-sensitive CMS settlement offer that you must act on this Winter or risk significant financial losses. Medicare Advantage Overpayments Letters[...]
Learn MoreQUESTION: I'm pretty nervous about the significant changes to the Evaluation and Management (E/M) codes being made soon. The 2020 CMS Physician Fee Schedule goes into effect January 1, 2020, Does it contain the changes? ANSWER: The 2020 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule confirms that the E/M code changes completely take effect in 2021.[...]
Learn MoreCorrectly coding for injections and infusions can often feel like a shot in the dark. From assigning codes for multiple drugs to add-on codes to accurately documenting stop and start times, even the most experienced coders feel the pinch of these complex coding guidelines. But code claims incorrectly, and you could be costing your practice[...]
Learn MoreYou should expect to see Medicare providing more oversight and audits on chart reviews, specifically ones that result in additional patient diagnoses and payment. A U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) December 2019 report has raised concerns over billions of dollars in Medicare Advantage payments generated from chart reviews.[...]
Learn MorePreparation is key to any project or endeavor, and payer contract negotiations are no different. If you don’t have your ducks in a row including your fee schedule pricing demands and arguments, you could be shut down before you’re even out of the gate. The fee schedule portion of your payer contract outlines the rate[...]
Learn MoreA simple provider enrollment or credentialing error can stop your physician or nonphysician practitioner from being reimbursed for treating patients. When you implement these 7 strategies you will be on your way to filing complete, accurate applications that get approved quickly so you can keep your patients provided for and your reimbursements coming. #1: Keep[...]
Learn MoreWhen you’re helping patients successfully transition from the hospital, SNF, or rehab, you can capture your non face-to-face services care coordination with Transitional Care Management codes. To encourage you to use these codes more often, CMS 2020 is making them more lucrative and less burdensome. Hospital re-admissions, deaths, and healthcare costs are all decreased with[...]
Learn MoreWith COVID-19 delaying many patients care, your chronic care patients need more care now than ever. New rules mean that it’s gotten easier to get paid for chronic care management — but only if you’re up to date on the numerous changes and requirements that CMS has recently put in place. Reduced documentation requirements, new[...]
Learn MoreTo secure payments and prevent audits, you must have your patients sign the correct version of the Medicare ABN form. Don’t risk fines and face write-offs by submitting the wrong form — educate yourself on when a Medicare ABN is mandatory or voluntary to protect your practice against unpaid claims. What is a Medicare ABN?[...]
Learn MoreUpdate Notice: This information was updated for accuracy on May 19, 2021. This update reflects the 2021 CPT code changes for Chronic Care Management, specifically the replacement of code G2058 with code 99439. You’ll find this update in the “Facilitate Transitions of Care – Chronic Care Management Options” section below. Whether it’s diabetes, arthritis, or[...]
Learn MoreIf you don’t have time to comb through the 2020 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule, you’re not alone. Most physicians and staff are simply too pressed for time to figure out exactly what parts of the rule are relevant to their practice and specialty. If that’s the case — don’t worry. We’ve sussed out[...]
Learn MoreIf you are a primary care provider who treats Medicare patients — and looking to increase your revenue — the Primary Care First model might be just what you’re looking for. Earlier this year, CMS announced its Primary Cares Initiative, consisting of two new Alternative Payment Models (APMs). Both qualify as Advanced APMs for participation[...]
Learn MoreThe Office of Inspector General (OIG) added to its Workplan items that contractors will audit or evaluate with a more critical eye. If you bill for urine drug test or speech-language pathology services to Medicare beneficiaries, now’s the time to weigh your compliance risk and fix any issues. OIG Scrutinizes Urine Drug Test, Speech-Language Pathology[...]
Learn MoreThe 80’s are back, but it’s not fashion you should worry about. First enacted in 1989, the Stark Law is getting significant updates from CMS that benefit patient care, according to a proposed rule issued in October 2019. Comply with these new regulations that open the door to areas previously restricted as conflicts of interest.[...]
Learn MoreGetting reimbursed for preventive well woman exam claims is tricky - not all third-party payers reimburse for these services and the coverage rules vary for the payers that do. You can't afford to mess up the ABN or the allowed codes. Remove barriers to get the reimbursement you deserve by following a handy step-by-step guide.[...]
Learn MoreCMS has released the 2020 payment rates for HCPCS codes for the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP). A provider can receive payments of varying amounts close to $700 per beneficiary. New MDPP 2020 payment rates go into effect Jan. 1. While the rate change is minimal, every dollar makes a difference towards an ounce of[...]
Learn MoreTALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General Ashley Moody today announced the completion of a statewide Medicaid fraud takedown. The Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit executed 19 arrests for fraudulently billing Medicaid more than a million dollars. The arrests culminated from 14 different cases covering a wide range of charges, including: aggravated identity theft, conspiracy to commit health[...]
Learn MoreExpect payment processing delays for claims with modifier 59, 25, 57, RT/LT from Anthem BlueCross BlueShield plans. The carrier has now implemented clinical prepayment reviews in 14 states. October 1 saw the program roll out in 10 new states including New York, Georgia, and Ohio. You may have several questions on why the insurer has[...]
Learn MoreYou may have added Medicare reimbursement opportunities to rejoice about come the new year. In the final rule for the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, CMS has plans to expand coverage for opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment services to increase access to treatment, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT Opioid Treatment Programs). How to Get Paid for MAT[...]
Learn MoreA patient can terminate the physician-patient relationship at any time and is always free to seek another provider. The physician, however, cannot fire a patient, without risking a patient abandonment complaint. When the time comes to terminate the relationship, take these actions to terminate patients in a smooth legally-free manner. Provide a Patient Dismissal Letter[...]
Learn MoreQUESTION: Can you bill CPT Code 99211 for a blood pressure check by the nurse? The patient did not see the doctor. - Anonymous, Salt Lake City, UT ANSWER: You may bill CPT code 99211 for a blood pressure evaluation for an established patient whose physician requested a follow-up visit to check blood pressure. CPT[...]
Learn MoreIt’s fall — and that usually means CMS will soon drop its final rule on the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. But this September, a brand new final rule just fell into your lap: the “Program Integrity Enhancements to the Provider Enrollment Process” Final Rule. This rule extends CMS’s authority to take action against “unqualified and[...]
Learn MoreFor an agency that embraces values-based care, CMS is missing the mark when it comes to monitoring its own quality measures, finds a recent watchdog report. The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) published their September 2019 Health Care Quality report: “CMS Could More Effectively Ensure Its Quality Measurement Activities Promote Its Objectives.” The report indicates[...]
Learn MoreIf your practice has an Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC), you’re part of the millions Medicaid saves every year. However, you reap fewer benefits than Hospital Outpatient Departments (HOPDs). A new bill on the table could serve to ease some of the burden your ASC faces, especially relating to the variable CMS ASC approved procedure list.[...]
Learn MoreAre you billing for fee-for-compensation services correctly? Many practices aren’t — and that means leaving money on the table. In today’s healthcare market, that’s not something you can afford to do. Unfortunately, fee-for-compensation billing is often misunderstood, so many practices aren’t getting all the reimbursement they deserve. Plus, incorrect or non-compliant billing practices can catch[...]
Learn MoreFor years, deductibles were so low. Payers paid most of the patient responsibility on claim submission. Those days are obviously gone putting the onus on your practice’s medical collections to keep your revenue stream healthy. “Most patients maybe had a $250 or $500 deductible,” recalls medical collections expert Tracy Bird, FACMPE, CPC, CPMA, CEMC, CPC-I,[...]
Learn MoreFor providers to get paid when they treat Medicare patients, they have to be enrolled in the Medicare program. But the enrollment process and directions for Medicare enrollment application CMS-855I are complicated and confusing! One wrong entry can delay your application setting you back thousands of dollars while you wait. These FAQs will help you[...]
Learn MoreObtaining Medicare reimbursements for telehealth services isn’t always easy — especially considering CMS telehealth originating site rule restrictions. While telehealth coverage is on the rise, a recent Harris Poll study shows practice adoption has not kept up with patient demand for convenience and better population health care for chronic conditions. CMS recently has agreed to[...]
Learn MoreDoes even thinking about new provider credentialing give you a headache? Sure, you’re anxious for new providers to start generating revenue for your practice. But you’re also dreading those long, complicated forms that are so easy to mess up. Credentialing is anything but simple. One misstep, and your practice’s revenue cycle will slow to a[...]
Learn MoreEveryone makes mistakes. Unfortunately, sometimes small mistakes will cost you big time. Such is the case with claim form errors. The CMS form 1500 is your primary means of getting reimbursement from Medicaid, Medicare, and Tricare. Even a minor claim form error can delay processing and payment or worse—lead to denial. On the flip side,[...]
Learn MoreCMS won’t release the 2020 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule final rule until later this fall, but that doesn’t mean you should wait to shore up your reimbursement for coding remote patient monitoring based on the proposed rule. Released in July, the proposed rule contains important clues about what you can expect next year. And even[...]
Learn MoreDid you receive a perfect score in the MIPS Promoting Interoperability category in 2017 or 2018? Most practices did in those first two years, but this year, it will be much more difficult to achieve even a high score let alone a perfect one with the changes for MIPS Promoting Interoperability 2019. The worst case[...]
Learn MoreIf you’re using Modifier 59 to get paid for multiple procedures, auditors are watching you. Modifier 59 has been on the OIG’s (Office of the Inspector General) radar for a while now, and because of consistent misuse and abuse, it will likely stay that way. Modifier 59 allows you to unbundle — separately report and[...]
Learn MoreWithout proper medical credentialing, a medical practitioner legally cannot work at a hospital or partner with insurers. Having medical staff credentialing training is crucial to ensure staff properly attain and maintain physicians credentials. Only a new physician or practitioner who is credentialed is allowed to see patients, receive insurance reimbursements, and treat hospital inpatients. Fail[...]
Learn MoreSeveral months ago, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released an updated Medicare telemedicine policy for Medicare, which went into effect on Jan. 1, 2019. The new changes in the CMS’ finalized Calendar Year 2019 Physician Fee Schedule for Medicare telemedicine policy are brought with the goal of streamlining the healthcare system, and[...]
Learn MoreIt's hard to miss updating your practice on Supreme Court landmark decisions (like the Affordable Care Act). But you can easily overlook prepping your practice for court rules stemming from smaller cases. While they may not make it to the nightly news — still affect our daily lives. One of those is the May 2019[...]
Learn MoreHow hard are your managed care contracts working for you? Could payer contracting even be working against you? Payer reimbursements are the foundation of your practice revenue, but unfavorable contract terms can cost you thousands of dollars. Many providers find payer contract negotiation — or renegotiation — to be a complex and even uncomfortable task,[...]
Learn MoreUsing Medicare’s ABN form, Advance Beneficiary Notice might be a routine part of your job, but are you sure you’re doing it correctly and compliantly? Providers and staff who treat Medicare patients must know exactly how and when to issue a CMS ABN form to avoid costly write-offs and penalties. If you’re like most providers[...]
Learn MoreSeveral weeks ago, a customer called and asked, “How long should we keep our patients’ medical records before destroying them?” Over the years, I’ve heard a variety of answers to this question, and it never seemed that complicated. Boy, was I wrong. Of course, the answer can’t be simple or definitive. Basically, how long you[...]
Learn MoreLeveraging incident to billing for your Non-Physician Practitioner (NPP) services is a great way to increase your revenue by as much as 15%. If you do it right, your NPPs can receive payments for their services at the same rate as your physicians (vs. the normal 85%). On the flip side, one slip-up while navigating[...]
Learn MoreMaking the mistake of employing an excluded physician, nurse, nonphysician provider or administrator will lead to you facing thousands in civil money penalties — not to mention the money you’ll lose for services you’ve provided that can never be billed. Thinking that this can’t affect your practice is a HUGE mistake. In fact, the Office[...]
Learn MoreExperts predict that the telehealth industry will reach $9.35 Billion by 2021 - an astounding leap from just $2.78 Billion in 2016. And, in a recent survey by American Well, 20% of patients say they would change doctors just to be able to access telehealth services. So, if you haven’t yet dipped your toe in[...]
Learn MoreThe number of physician practices being audited each year continues to rise. As a result, more and more providers committing fraud, or just making mistakes, are being identified and required to pay massive penalties or have even been sentenced to jail time. In many instances, the violation wasn’t intentional, but because they had no way[...]
Learn MoreRecently, with massive wildfires, chart-topping storms and more, emergency preparedness has been on many people’s mind, with good reason, and it’s something that hospital and provider administrators think about on a regular basis. Now, CMS has come out with a directive covering many of the aspects of how providers must operate in a range of[...]
Learn MoreAs if getting your head around the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) wasn’t challenging enough, CMS is now retracting an erroneous email sent in late July. The email incorrectly stated that clinicians who qualify for “special status” would be fully exempt from the Quality Payment Program. Their latest guidance corrects this error, stating that special[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests that Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) utilize and apply changes to the FISS system regarding taxonomy codes. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R1876OTN.pdf Subject: Modifications to the National Coordination of Benefits Agreement (COBA) Crossover Process Number: 1876 Title: 10155 Release Date: July 27, 2017 Effective Date: January 1, 2018 Implementation[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests that Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) evaluate CMN and DIF depending upon medical record content and the existence of any errors or omissions, for the purposes of deciding whether denials are appropriate. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R733PI.pdf Subject: Clarification of Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN) and Durable Medical Equipment[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests that Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) perform various tasks for FISS analysis. Contractors shall participate in eight weekly 1-hour calls, take meeting minutes and post them in ECHIMP during a given timeline of two days, provide final analysis papers, and otherwise conduct research and comply with CMS[...]
Learn MoreSummary: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests that Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) utilize new tests enumerated by CMS with CLIA-covered code files and a QW modifier and evaluate claims according to CMS protocols. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R3812CP.pdf Subject: New Waived Tests Number: 3812 Title: 10198 Release Date: July 27, 2017 Effective Date: October[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests that Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) observe and work with updates from FISS, a Medicare Part A claims processing system. Contractors shall participate in five 1-hour meetings to discuss testing. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R1874OTN.pdf Subject: Implementation CR: Integrating NLR into the HQR system Number: 1874 Title: 10134 Release[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests that Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) review changes to the Medicare Provider Reimbursement Manual, Part 2, Provider Cost Reporting Forms and Instructions, Chapter 23, Form CMS-276-16. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R1P223.pdf Subject: NA Number: 1 Title: NA Release Date: July 21, 2017 Effective Date: NA Implementation Date: NA Special[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests that Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) comply with new requirements for Pub. 100-09, Chapter 6 Medicare Contractor Beneficiary and Provider Communications Manual. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R36COM.pdf Subject: Updates to Pub. 100-09, Chapter 6 Beneficiary and Provider Communications Manual, Chapter 6, Provider Customer Service Program Number: 36 Title: 10168[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests that Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) work to accommodate CMS coverage of Hepatitis B screening for non-pregnant, high risk individuals with the appropriate U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved/cleared laboratory tests. The coverage is compliant with Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) regulations. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R3831CP.pdf Subject:[...]
Learn MoreSet up the wrong employment relationship with your nonphysician practitioners (NPPs), and you’ll forfeit the ability to bill their services incident-to your physicians and miss out on an additional 15% of their reimbursement. Or worse, you could bill incident-to incorrectly and get targeted for an audit and be required to pay back all the reimbursement[...]
Learn MoreIf the pending proposed Quality Payment Program (QPP) rule released Jun 20th is finalized later this year, it will be easier for small physician practices (defined at 15 or few eligible clinicians) to earn automatic bonus points and earn hardship exemptions due to electronic health record (EHR) requirements. The currently approved plan states that practices[...]
Learn MoreEven though 2017 is the first year you’re required to collect and report your MACRA quality data, the question of whether you qualify for an Alternative Payment Model (APM) was still open for most providers. The benefit of qualifying to report under APM guidelines is that you don’t have to worry about getting your future[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) acknowledge Medicare coverage of Percutaneous Image-guided Lumbar Decompression (PILD) under the Coverage with Evidence Development (CED) paradigm. Coverage applies for beneficiaries with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS) enrolled in a CMS-approved prospective longitudinal study. Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R3787CP.pdf Subject: Percutaneous Image-guided Lumbar Decompression (PILD) for[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) remove third party software from the Combined Common Edits/Enhancements Module (CCEM) and otherwise work with the software and the CCEM to ensure proper integration. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R1842OTN.pdf Subject: Remove HSQLDB from the Combined Common Edits/Enhancements Module (CCEM) Number: 1842 Title: 10088 Release[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) review changes to the Coordination of Benefits Agreement (COBA) claims crossover process effecting handling in the Common Working File. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R3765CP.pdf Subject: Modifications to the Common Working File (CWF) In Support of the Coordination of Benefits Agreement (COBA) Crossover Process Number:[...]
Learn MoreYou should learn soon whether you meet the 2017 MIPS participation threshold, CMS announced in an April 25 press release. This means you may know sooner — rather than later — if you have to comply with MACRA for the 2017 reporting period. During the month of May, you will receive a letter from the[...]
Learn MoreAlthough Medicare began paying for chronic care management (CCM) services in 2016, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) reports that many practices are not taking advantage of the new coverage, even after more than a year. And if you’re not billing this service for those who are likely your sickest patients, you’re losing[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) review revisions for cost reporting periods ending on or after December31, 2016, according to the Medicare Provider Reimbursement Manual updates given. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R14P229.pdf Subject: NEW/REVISED MATERIAL--EFFECTIVE: Cost reporting periods ending on or after December 31, 2016 Number: 14 Title: N/A Release[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) review and utilize a Recurring Update Notification which updates the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and may require changes to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS), Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC), HCPCS Modifier, and Revenue Code. Contractors shall manually add and[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) acknowledge a Recurring Update Notification for the Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) Payment System as well as updates to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS). Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R3726CP.pdf Subject: April 2017 Update of the Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) Payment System Number: 3726 Title:[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) review routine changes to the Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Fee Schedule for April 2017. Contractors shall implement any changes in pricing and process claims according to the new guidance. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R3729CP.pdf Subject: April Quarterly Update for 2017[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) adjust processing claims for oxygen and oxygen equipment under the Medicare Part B benefit for durable medical equipment as per updates to section 130.6 of chapter 20 of the Medicare Claims Processing Manual (Pub.100-04). FullTransmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R3730CP.pdf Subject: Payment for Oxygen Volume Adjustments[...]
Learn MoreMACRA is not going anywhere. So whether you like it or not, you have an important decision to make. For the first year, you have to weigh your compliance options and pick the right one for your practice. Choose wrong, and you could be faced with a significant decrease in your future Medicare reimbursement. For[...]
Learn MoreShould a practice check the LEIE database (OIG Exclusions Database) for every vendor in their accounts payable file? I would because you are paying the vendors with funds that come indirectly from the Medicare program. I have done this for a number of entities, and you would be surprised how people end up on the[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests that Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) review changes to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Database (MPFSDB) for April 2017. MACs are instructed to update their systems and send a receipt notification by email to [email protected], stating the name of the file received and the entity for which[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) to make payment for Advance Care Planning according to system changes. CMS has made the CPT code 99497 for Advance Care Planning (ACP) separately payable for Medicare OPPS claims when the service meets the criteria for separate payment under OPPS. A Medicare[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests that a contractor for the CMS drug program, General Dynamics Information Technology, make changes to the VIPS Medicare System (VMS). Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R1796OTN.pdf Subject: Processing Updates for VMS From Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System (PECOS) Extract File Number: 1796 Title: 9962 Release Date: Feb. 10,[...]
Learn MoreWhat does Medicare consider an originating site for Telemedicine services? Medicare (CMS [Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services]) has some guidance to help you identify what might qualify as an originating site. You will need to verify with your other payers if you are dealing with someone other than Medicare. The Medicare originating site locations[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) utilize an indicator of Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) status to the Medicare Fee-For-Service claims processing systems. The QMB program assists low-income Medicare beneficiaries, who, by federal law, pay no Medicare deductibles, copays, or coinsurance. CMS instructs MACs to create a new beneficiary[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) use a five digit county code for the purposes of implementing an out migration adjustment that used to be done manually. The county code will go on inpatient and outpatient Provider Specific Files (PSF). A Pricer will calculate appropriate wage index for[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) handle payments and make changes to the Common Working File (CWF) for the addition of influenza virus vaccine code 90682. Contractors must accept claims with dates of service on or after July 1, 2017. Contractors must make payments, adjust claims and otherwise[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) utilize a new National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) set of procedure to procedure edits (PTP) known as Version 23.1, which will be effective April 1, 2017, available via the CMS Data Center (CDC), for correct payment of Medicare Part B claims. Contractors[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) publish an update to IOM, Medicare Claims Processing Manual with a revision. Contractors shall delete the Type of Bill codes list, which is outdated. Contractors shall be aware of the IOM Chapter 25 changes. Full Transmittal: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2017Downloads/R3709CP.pdf Subject: Internet Only Manual (IOM)[...]
Learn MoreThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) implement changes to the National Coordination of Benefits Agreement (COBA) crossover process according to a Social Security Number Removal Initiative (SSNRI) undertaken by CMS consistent with the Medicare Access and CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program) Reauthorization Act (MACRA) of 2015. CMS provides[...]
Learn MoreThe first, and potentially most important, decision you’ll make as you start your 2017 MACRA compliance journey is to determine which program you fall under — MIPS or Advanced APMs. Make the wrong decision, and you can be hit by reductions in your future Medicare payments. Make the right decision, and you could qualify for[...]
Learn MoreIn 2017, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has added even more services to its approved telemedicine list, and you can be sure that the agency will continue this trend in coming years. That’s great news for both your potential patients and your practice. But the coding is hardly straightforward, and you have[...]
Learn MoreIf you report bilateral procedures — and most practices do — how you tell your payers that you performed the same services on both sides of the body depends greatly on the payer itself. But there are some general tools and strategies you can follow that will point you in the right direction, and help[...]
Learn MoreMACRA’s new Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) changes the way Medicare pays you. And unless you fully understand how to report your quality data under MIPS, your future Medicare payments will be significantly reduced (decreasing up to 4% initially, then later up to 9%). The bottom line is that your future Medicare payments will be[...]
Learn MoreAlthough you are expected to begin gathering data for the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) in 2017, a recent report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) indicated that there’s still more work to be done to ensure everyone has the tools and guidance necessary to[...]
Learn MoreAs you’re gearing up for 2017, selecting the best Quality measures to report under MIPS is essential for you to be able to achieve the highest possible Final Score. This is the only way to improve your chances to receive a positive Medicare payment adjustment rather than a reduction to your future revenues. Use these[...]
Learn MoreWhat do you do when an insurance payer denies a claim for NCCI edits, but it is contrary to the NCCI edits found on CMS’s website? Whose edit guidelines take precedence? When you are looking at NCCI verses a local coverage determination, the local coverage determination trumps the NCCI. One of the reasons for this[...]
Learn MoreIf you’ve opened your CPT® 2017 manual, you’ve noticed there’s a new symbol in front of some of the codes — a star. But what does this mean, and how does it affect your coding and reimbursement? The big news is that Medicare is paying for more of these services in 2017 — if you[...]
Learn MoreAlthough the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released the final rule under the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) back in October, it’s still looking for feedback in certain areas affected by the regulation. You can still provide feedback and suggestions, but your time if running out. You must submit your comments[...]
Learn MoreIn 2016, Medicare added chronic care management (CCM, 99490) to its list of reimbursable codes. Starting Jan. 1, the agency is adding complex CCM services (99487-99489) to that list as well. But there are specific rules you must follow to get the payment you deserve. Most likely, you’re already providing these much needed extra services[...]
Learn MoreWe recently held a webinar on billing nonphysician practitioner (NPP) services incident to the physician. And you wouldn’t believe the number of questions that came out of that session. This is certainly not a new topic, but there continues to be a great deal of confusion surrounding it. And many of the questions had to[...]
Learn MoreThe Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) 2017 Final Rule offers some big updates related to global periods, non-face-to-face services, telehealth, and moderate sedation coding, among others, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) when it released the rule Nov. 2. For instance, the MPFS rule addresses the agency’s efforts to collect data[...]
Learn MoreAlthough reporting under the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) is supposedly optional, not adhering to this new rule gets you a guaranteed Medicare reimbursement cut. The only way to head it off is to report at least some data in 2017. The question is, how should you report it? This is no small[...]
Learn MoreYou now have one more Advanced Alternative Payment Model (APM) for which you can qualify in 2017 and two more for 2018, according to an Oct. 25 press release from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). In particular, the CMS Innovation Center’s Oncology Care Model with two-sided risk will be available in 2017,[...]
Learn MoreOn Oct. 1, you lost the ICD-10 reporting grace period that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) granted to help ease you into complying with the new diagnosis coding system. So, why should you care? For the past year, you’ve been receiving payments for claims that were coded close to the target. All[...]
Learn MoreOct. 17, 2016 — On Friday, Oct. 14, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the final reporting requirements for its new MACRA rule going into effect Jan. 2017. This new program is about to turn how you are paid completely upside down. Based on MACRA, your Medicare reimbursement will be increased or[...]
Learn MoreOct. 14, 2016 — There can be no more speculation as to whether the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will go live with its Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) regulations on Jan. 1. Earlier today, CMS released the final MACRA rule after considering more than 4,000 comments and having 100,000 attendees[...]
Learn MoreThe Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) could transform healthcare, but if the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) doesn’t follow congressional intent with its regulations, compliance could become even more complicated than the current system. This is according to 18 congressional members in a recent letter to CMS Acting Administrator Andrew Slavitt[...]
Learn MoreGet ready — MACRA is definitely going live Jan. 1, and will most certainly have a huge impact on your claims payments. Before you jump on the MACRA bandwagon, you need to make sure that the program really applies to you. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced that it would release[...]
Learn MoreOn Sept. 26, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) made available for download your 2015 Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS) Feedback Reports and 2015 Annual Quality and Resource Use Reports (QRUR). These reports lay out your positive, neutral or negative payment adjustments under the PQRS and Value-Based Modifier programs, respectively, for your 2017[...]
Learn MoreUPDATE: In response to CMS Acting Administrator Andy Slavitt’s Sept. 8 announcement that the agency would not delay MACRA implementation, leaders of the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee and Ways and Means Committee issued a statement Sept. 9 indicating that they were pleased that CMS was moving forward with options for compliance with the[...]
Learn MoreThe relatively new 60-Day Rule affects all Medicare and Medicaid providers regardless of specialty, size or type, and nailing down the exact date to begin your 60-day countdown is one of the most confusing compliance aspects — although other rule components can easily trip you up as well. The rule may seem straightforward — you[...]
Learn MoreOn June 2, 2014, CMS Acting Director, Niall Brennan, posted some exciting ICD-10 testing results to the CMS website. In summary, based on 2,600 participants, CMS accepted 89% of the more than 127,000 claims that were submitted with ICD-10 diagnoses. Brennan also posted that, "HHS expects to release an interim final rule....that would require the[...]
Learn MoreThe American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) requires Medicare providers that are not meaningful users of electronic health records (EHR) to start by taking a 1% pay cut as of January 1, 2015. The payment adjustments will continue at 1% for every year if the provider is not a meaningful provider (maxing at[...]
Learn MoreAccording to a May 2014 report based on 2010 data, HHS is claiming Medicare overpaid $6.7 billion in E/M payments to providers. The Inspector General's report, released on May 29, 2014 estimates that 21% of the $32.3 billion spent on E/M services in 2010 are overpayments. This data is based on 657 Medicare claims. Although[...]
Learn MoreYou can boost your overall revenue by 2% but you must comply with detailed Medicare regulations for TCM CPT codes 99495 and 99496. This is where proper documentation of all post-discharge communications, visits and services provided is KEY – and that’s where this Complimentary TCM Template can help …
Learn MoreIn one quick and easy flow chart, you’ll be able to determine if a claim should be filed incident-to or not. You’ll gain confidence in your NPP coding, and should see your NPP reimbursement boost and your denials decline.
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