Optometry Coding & Billing Alert
Manage Timely Filling Limits
PDF
Question: We keep getting unnecessary denials because we keep missing timely filing deadlines. How can we keep better track of all of our payers' various filing time limits?
Georgia Subscriber
Answer: Perhaps the easiest way to take charge of multiple filing limits is to make a chart that lists each carrier's timely filing limit. Then you'll be able to identify quickly the payer with the shortest limits and work on those claims first.
To help improve the efficiency of this process, you should separate your claims by payer so you always know which ones need the most prompt attention. Arranging a set billing schedule will also help to cut down on timely filing denials. For claims with the shortest filing limits, keep an eye on their progress and call carriers to check up when necessary.
Communication is key: If you depend on labs or other organizations to send you glasses or contacts or other information before you can file claims, improved communication is often the key to making your deadlines. You can facilitate the information transfer process by maintaining contact with a specific person in each lab or other entity you depend on.
Remember: You may be able to renegotiate your contract with a payer to increase the timely filing limit. Always review the timely filing limit and determine if it's reasonable before signing on or renewing with a payer.
Optometry Coding & Billing Alert
- Reduce Your Risk of Improperly Coding Glaucoma Screenings
Asking the right questions before billing G0117 can save you $45 per procedure and keep [...] - News You Can Use:
Bill Medicare for Vision Rehab In Selected Cities
CMS tests the waters for full low-vision rehabilitation reimbursement
Optometrists who supervise vision rehabilitation therapists may [...] - You Be the Expert:
Check EO Frequency
Question: What are the rules regarding how often I can report extended ophthalmoscopy on one [...] - Consider 3 Key Factors Before Saying 'Yes' to Another Carrier
Don't take on an additional payer if the hassle will outweigh the payments
When you don't [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Report Refraction for Medicare Patient
Question: A Medicare patient came in just to have his prescription updated. If I only [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Don't Let Age Drive Diabetes Diagnosis
Question: We recently had a 16-year-old patient with underlying diabetes. We weren't sure whether to [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Protect PHI-Purge Plain-Text E-mails
Question: We do not now have any encryption services on our office e-mail system. How [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Manage Timely Filling Limits
Question: We keep getting unnecessary denials because we keep missing timely filing deadlines. How can [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Check In Patients-Not Privacy Violations
Question: We would like patients to write down their date of birth or the last [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Assess Patient Cooperation
Question: We like to arrange mutually agreeable payment plans with patients whenever possible, rather than [...] - Clarification:
Append LT and RT to Post-Op Code
A Reader Question in the July 2005 Optometry Coding & Billing Alert, "Use 54 to [...]