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Part B Insider (Multispecialty) Coding Alert

REIMBURSEMENT:
Congress May Not Vote on Proposed Fee Schedule Changes Until January
Unless lawmakers act soon, a 10.1 percent Medicare pay cut haunts physiciansIf you were ho... Read more
PART B REVENUE BOOSTER:
Don't Forget About Q Codes With Your Casting Claims
Think Q4050 is out of your reach? Think againIf you aren't billing Q codes to Medicare for... Read more
RADIOLOGY:
Stay on Your Toes to Keep Imaging Claims on the Straight and Narrow
The OIG is watching your advanced imaging claims, thanks to a new reportWatch out: Yours c... Read more
PART B MYTHBUSTER:
You Can Collect for Your Anesthesiologist's CVP Placement
If the surgeon bills it first, appeal with your documentationThe next time your anesthesio... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Expert Tips Ensure You Apply Modifiers 54 and 55 Correctly
You-re in for a world of denials if you miss this coordination tipIf your physician is co-... Read more
Bolster Your Suture-Removal Savvy With Modifiers 54 and 55
Discover whether your answer matches the expert-sIf you-re not reporting your physician's ... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Medicare Cuts Payment for Two Oncology Drugs
You-ll collect about half of the cost price of Bexxar and Zevalin in 2008Starting in Janua... Read more
READER QUESTION:
Straight From the Insider's Listserv: Consider Redetermination vs. Appeal
Tip: Check the LCD list before you appealQuestion: We performed a service that we know was... Read more
CLAIMS ACCURACY:
Healthcare Practitioners Threw Away $259 Million Last Year
ASCs boast low error rates, general practices show the highestIf the latest CERT report is... Read more
CLAIMS ACCURACY:
Medicare Paid $1.7 Billion in Upcoded E/M Claims Last Year
But CERT report reveals improvements in coding accuracyIf your favorite code is 99205, wat... Read more
PART B REVENUE BOOSTER:
Limit 69990 to Once Per Session -- Not Per Level
Medicare is finicky about reimbursing operating scope, so be carefulJust because your surg... Read more
COMPLIANCE:
Make a List -- And Check It Twice Before Giving Gifts
Stark II refinements change little, but caution is still the name of the gameBear too many... Read more
COMPLIANCE:
Take a Fresh Look at Your Beneficiary Gift-Giving
Regulators could construe goodwill as influenceYou may feel compelled to help disadvantage... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Here's How Vascular Families Can Vary Your Selective Cath Coding Choices
Learn the most overlooked services experts say you should be reportingVascular coding basi... Read more
Size Up Your 2nd- and 3rd- Order Cath Skills
1 Code or 2? The answer may surprise youNow that you-ve read up on cath coding rules in -H... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
CPT Committee Releases Five Pages of Errata
If you had trouble finding -Sengstaaken- in your medical dictionary, that's because it was... Read more
PQRI:
Smoking Cessation Counseling May Net You a PQRI Bonus in 2008
Final rule introduces 60 new PQRI measures for -08The 2008 Fee Schedule final rule include... Read more
COMPLIANCE:
Collecting From Both Part A and B Isn't Twice as Nice to the OIG
Even outpatient lab services are included in the DRGs for most inpatientsThe HHS Office of... Read more
MYTHBUSTER:
Clarification--Avoid Making Alphabet Soup Out of Modifiers GV and GW
Hospice participation is growing, so make sure you know how to bill for itIf you-re billin... Read more
IMAGING:
CMS' Imaging Measures May Lead to Tighter Radiology Rules
You can have your say during the comment period ending Dec. 14Your new CT equipment may be... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Ethically Add Dollars to Your Fracture Care Claims
Use these tips to decide whether E/M or fracture care is the way to goWondering when you s... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Duplicate Claims Top Trailblazer's Error List
You may be able to slow your denial volume by simply checking your claim status.TrailBlaze... Read more
READER QUESTION:
Payers Differ on Facility Charges for Multiple Imaging Services
You shouldn't have trouble with the professional component, but be careful with TCQuestion... Read more
HCPCS 2008:
New Codes May Ease Lucentis Claims
And HCPCS now includes Supprelin LA code Hot on the heels of the new CPT 2008 introduction... Read more
HCPCS 2008:
New Modifier Makes MUEs More Palatable in 2008
And Synvisc codes change ... againIf you need a way to override a medically unlikely edit,... Read more
REVENUE BOOSTER:
Don't Write Off X-Ray Reimbursement for SNF Patients
Fees may seem small, but they add up over timeIf you write off x-ray fees for SNF patients... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
CMS Gives No Payment to Several New CPT Codes
And CMS also avoids coverage for substance abuse codes The Centers for Medicare &... Read more
COMPLIANCE:
Stark III Delayed for Some Centers
Nonprofit, academic health centers get a short reprieveCertain academic medical centers an... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Solve Your Flu Vaccination Coding Confusion With This Guide
Don't forget V codes when necessaryPatients are lining up for their annual flu vaccination... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
CMS Unveils New E-Prescribing Proposal
You may be seeing more new electronics around if CMS has its wayOn Nov. 13, Mike Leavitt, ... Read more
READER QUESTION:
Your Physician Can Report 99211
But watch your documentation carefullyQuestion: Our physician billed 99211 a few times las... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Prepare Now--Medicare Could Decimate Your Payments In January
But anesthesiologists boost their pay by one-thirdThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid ... Read more
COVERAGE:
Medicare Is Pro High-Tech -- Except When It Comes To E/M Visits
Anticoagulation management is still bundled for 2008Don't get too excited about some of th... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Moh's Micrographic Surgery Will See Micro-Payments In January
CMS continues IVIG payments, boosts home visits Warning: Start watching out for payment re... Read more
COMPLIANCE:
Doomsday Delayed For Many Common Joint Ventures
But your imaging suite could be a money loser nowGood news: You don't have to rethink all ... Read more
PQRI:
You Won't Know Your Share Of The $1.35 Billion PQRI Pie Until The End
California doctors still out of luck with geographic adjustersIf you stayed away from the ... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
The Experts Weigh In On Chronic Conditions And E/M Levels
Hint: Simply mentioning inactive conditions could lead you down the wrong pathThe 1997 doc... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
2009 Could Bring A 15-Percent Decrease In Your Reimbursement
You get a little more breathing room on NPI requirementsCongress continues to fight over t... Read more
PART B MYTHBUSTER:
Your Audits May Be Making Your Coding Worse, Not Better
Does your auditor know the score? Find out before it's too late.Myth: Any coder can perfor... Read more
ANESTHESIOLOGY:
Ensure Your Documentation Proves Anesthesiologist Placed A-Line
Fend off audits by looking for details of procedureIs your documentation letting down your... Read more
CPT 2008 REVENUE BOOSTER:
Look For Drug-Abuse Questions In E/M Notes, And Add To Your Revenue
Doctor must document time, structured questionnaireHeads up: If a patient comes in and see... Read more
Claims Must Be NPI-Only By May, CMS Warns
May 2008 seemed like a long way off back when the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Serv... Read more
The Treating Physicians Is In The Driver's Seat For Diagnostic Tests
Heads up: Medicare will only pay for diagnostic tests when the -treating physician- or -tr... Read more
CONSULT MYTHBUSTER:
4 Myths That Could Turn Your Consults Into Lower-Paying E/Ms
Look to CPT guidelines to avoid misconceptions Are you missing out on billing some c... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Don't Let Cardiovascular Screening Missteps Hurt Your Payment Odds
1 day short of the 5-year rule? That's all it takes to get a denialMedicare patients who r... Read more
Find Out How Waived Status Can Affect Your Bottom Line
Want to bill urinalysis? Read this firstWithout Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Make Sure Your New MAC Is Working To Earn Its Bonuses
Republicans want to leave you hanging for 2009 paymentsSay goodbye to your carriers in sev... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Don't Forget Modifiers For Hospice Patients
Close relationship with hospice billers helps avoid denialsQuestion: We keep receiving den... Read more
PART B MYTHBUSTER:
Don't Let Consult Request Forms Tie You In Knots
Some specialists are asking for the moon, primary care physicians complainMyth: Consult re... Read more
CPT 2008:
No Cystoscopy? No Problem Next Year
You can stop handing out ABNs for renal tumor ablationsGood news: You can stop using the 5... Read more
Last Chance To Test Your BPIs On Claims
Watch out: Medicare will start requiring National Provider Identifiers (NPIs) on all claim... Read more
CONSULTS:
How To Craft A Bulletproof Consult Request Form
When is a request for a consult too much information?Your consults could slow to a trickle... Read more
Clip And Save:
Consult Request Form
It's time to streamline your consult request form. Here's the standard form that consultan... Read more
MODIFIERS:
Throw Out The 25-Percent Rule For Modifier 22
Beef up your documentation for the 59 modifierHeads up: The requirements for modifier 22 a... Read more
Part D Or Part B? Know Who's Covering Chemotherapy Drugs
Beneficiaries must continue to jump through Part D's administrative appeals hoops when pre... Read more
CPT 2008:
Prepare To Specify Your Doctor's Approach To Retina Surgery
No more unlisted code for Lucentis next yearHeads up: If your ophthalmologist performs ret... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
CPT Puts Time on Coder's Side in 2008
Tobacco counseling and phone E/Ms getting easier to reportIf figuring the level of service... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Senate Stymied On Medicare Payment Fixes
Keep sending your cancer patients to federally approved clinical trials Saving your ... Read more
CPT 2008 SPECIAL ISSUE:
Medicare May Soon Cover FDG-PET Scans For Infection
CPT descriptor changes pave the way for coverageWith all the bad news that's hit imaging l... Read more
CPT 2008 SPECIAL ISSUE:
New Codes Will Ease Non-Chemo Infusion Coding
Your NPP's participation in long team conferences may lead to reimbursementGood news: If y... Read more
CPT 2008 SPECIAL ISSUE:
Pay Attention To Cardiac MRI Documentation--Reap Rewards
Gain proper reimbursement for gastrostomy tube conversion next yearIt's official: The Amer... Read more
Why-And When-You Should Stop Writing Off Modified Maze Procedures
When your surgeon performs the modified maze procedure at the same session as another surg... Read more
UROLOGY MYTHBUSTER:
Ensure Your Robotic-Assist Coding Is Living Up to Its Potential
Key: Do payor-specific research before adding S2900 to another claimMyth: You can never ge... Read more
Elbow Aside Those Unlisted Codes For Tennis Elbow Surgery
Fracture care will gain some new codes in 2008. For example, new codes 27267-27268 cover -... Read more
CPT 2008 SPECIAL ISSUE:
Prepare To Code For Computer-Assisted Surgeries Next Year
Choosing an abdominal lesion excision code will get easierCutting-edge surgeries and commo... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Nail Down The 16-Minute Infusion Rule For Bulletproof Claims
Here's why time matters on multi-substance infusion sessionsWhen your physician performs a... Read more
Test Your 90765-90768 Coding Skills
Determine where to focus your infusion coding education with this quizYou aren't alone if ... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
You Can't Change The Terms Of Relocation Bonuses After The Doctor's Already Relocated
AMA blitzes the airwaves to stop Medicare pay cutsNow that the Centers for Medicare & ... Read more
ANESTHESIA MYTHBUSTER:
Good Documentation Can Be Your Lifeline For A-Lines
Your carrier may require modifier 59Myth: You can never bill separately for arterial lines... Read more
DOCUMENTATION:
Watch Out--Nurse's History Note Could Be Audit Bait
Nurses can document chief complaint, but history should be in doctor's handwritingWarning:... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Don't Treat A Second-Hand Problem Like A New Development
Don't bill Medicare for routine pre-operative chest X-rayA problem may be new to your doct... Read more
January Is Drop-Dead NPI Deadline, CMS Says
You can count on one more requirement to make the new year even crazier than usual. The Ce... Read more
IMAGING:
Imagine A Crackdown On Diagnostic Imaging Next Year
OIG also looking into incident-to billing, polysomnographyHeads up: If your practice owns ... Read more
Run Down This Quick Checklist to Pinpoint Denial's Reason
1 phone call may solve a simple mistakeWhen you get a denial for a claim you know Medicare... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
You May Have To Fight The Managed Care Lobby To Avoid Massive Cuts
Heads up: More managed-care patients on the wayNow's the time to call your Senator. The Se... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
4 Strategies To Master The 'Multiple Scope' Rule
Here's what you should do when there's no base procedureIf your physician performs several... Read more
READER QUESTION:
Don't Let Fear Of Denials Keep You From Billing Monthly A1C Tests
Make sure your fifth digit supports uncontrolled diagnosisQuestion: How many times per yea... Read more
CPT 2008:
Prepare To See A New Path To Bill For Retina Surgeries
FOBT code will become more flexible in 2008Heads up: CPT 2008 will eliminate retina surger... Read more
PQRI:
Red Flag--You Can't Resubmit Botched Claims Just To Fix PQRI Problems
Start preparing for 2008 quality reporting right awayIf your clearinghouse was dropping yo... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
Your Costliest Chart Audit Myths Exposed
Don't treat audits as punishment or probation, or you could lose moneyWatch out: How many ... Read more
AUDITS:
Find Hidden Revenue in Common Code Claims
We uncover the top trouble spots that could be lurking in your chartsHeads up: It's not en... Read more
PQRI:
Money For 2007 Bonuses Is Guaranteed …quot; But 2008 Funds Aren't
You could get more feedback from Medicare during next year's PQRIDon't believe the rumors:... Read more
The 3 Deadly Myths That Could Be Hindering Your E/M Chart Audits
Experts advise you to focus on your evaluation and management visits to reap the biggest r... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Clinch Foreign Body Removal Claims With These Expert Tips
Hint: Check for incision before reporting FBR codePatients who report to your physician fo... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
NPI Database Nightmares Aren't Over Yet, CMS Warns
Look back through your imaging claims for missing -Q- codesIf you-ve been having trouble a... Read more
CPT 2008:
Breaking News--No More Unlisted Codes For Laparoscopic Ob/Gyn Surgeries
3 approaches, 3 codes for paravaginal defect repairIf you code for a paravaginal defect re... Read more
CPT 2008:
Tough Injections Could Gain New Coding Options In January
Caution: Don't bill regular ventilator management codes for nursing home patients next yea... Read more
CPT 2008:
Innoculate Yourself Against Ignorance Of New Vaccine Codes
These new codes are official for January 1, even if they-re not in the bookYou-ll have six... Read more
Not Necrotic? No Problem! Mesh Removal May Get Easier
Here are a few more changes that sources say may be coming next year:- Mesh removal code 1... Read more
PART B MYTHBUSTER:
Capture Extra Reimbursement For Up To Half Of Your Critical Care Cases
Make sure your documentation explains why the services were separateMyth: You can't bill f... Read more
MEDICALLY UNLIKELY EDITS:
Prepare For A Whole New Wave Of Denials In January
The medically unlikely edits are sailing past anatomy into the realm of clinical decision ... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Master Colonoscopy Screening Requirements or Pay the Price
Keep this list of high-risk diagnoses close at handYou have to know all the basics of Medi... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Contact Your Member Of Congress -- And Urge Pay-Cut Action Now
Medicare -bounty hunters- will soon be in your back yardBad news: The chances of averting ... Read more
CPT 2008 SCOOP:
You Could Soon See Money For Substance Abuse Counseling
But will Medicare actually pay for these new codes? Stay tuned.Good news: If your doctor g... Read more
Weems Jumps Into CMS Hot Seat
President Bush has named Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator nomine... Read more
UROLOGY:
Make Sure Your Documentation Justifies An Extra $100 Per Procedure
Correct Coding Initiative hits catheterization, prostate surgery hard Heads up: Octob... Read more
Make Sure Your Documentation Supports Separate E/M, Or Lose Out
CPT 2007 introduced 94644 (Continuous inhalation treatment with aerosol medication for acu... Read more
CCI EDITS:
No Modifier Will Overcome 13.3's Hundreds Of New Surgery Edits
Avoid spinal surgery denials by paying attention to CCI changesBad news: You can pretty mu... Read more
Looking For Closure? Medicare Won't Pay For It Separately
Watch out: CPT codes 12001-12007, for simple repair of superficial wounds, become componen... Read more
UROLOGY:
Watch Out For Trouble Signs -- And Add An Extra $62 To Your Reimbursement
Just because some other doctor had trouble, doesn't mean your urologist gets a bonusQuesti... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Exceed Auditors' Expectations With This E/M History Level Guide
Steer clear of the -here for recheck- pitfallIf choosing E/M patient history levels leaves... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Congress Bickers While Your Pay Cut Looms Closer
And the Medicare cuts may hit closer to home for some staffersUrgent: Your office could be... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
You Can Always Bill Diagnostic Tests After A Surgery
Study up on the global package to make sure you don't miss payable servicesQuestion: Our c... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
You Could Lose All Your Payments For 93325 Next Year
Keep an eye out: CPT 2009 may contain new combined echocardiography codeA provision in the... Read more
ANESTHESIA:
A 32-Percent Pay Hike Could Be Coming Your Way
GAO comes down on anesthesiologists- sideAnesthesiologists, rejoice. The Government Accoun... Read more
STARK LAW:
Rural Hospitals Can Pay Some Of Your Office's Expenses When You Recruit
CMS closes another loophole for joint venturesGood news: Your doctors may not have to rush... Read more
Doctors Protest Cuts To Multiple Moh's Procedures
Heads up: A little-noticed proposal in the 2008 Medicare fee schedule could slash your rei... Read more
AMBULATORY SURGERY CENTERS:
CMS Doubles ASC Standards -- And Increases Your Headaches
Make your voice heard, but also start preparing to complyHeads up: If your doctor's Ambula... Read more
COMPLIANCE:
Comments On Stark Rules Split Between Pro And Con
Brace yourself for a world of legal muddles if proposals go throughA controversial plan to... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Get the Facts to Boost Your Excision Reimbursement
Are you incorrectly limiting yourself to superficial excisions? Find out!When your physici... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
This Could Be Your Last Chance To Avoid 10-Percent Cut
Medicare will start rejecting claims with non-matching NPIsIt's crunch time: If Congress d... Read more
PART B REVENUE BOOSTER:
Add An Extra 4200 To Your I&D Reimbursement
Tell-tale sign that your physician's extra effort deserves extra dollarsEven a -routine- i... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Think Medicare Won't Cover Moderate Sedation? Think Again!
Tip: Make sure your doctor documents the level of sedationGood news: More Medicare carrier... Read more
PART B MYTHBUSTER:
Is Your Practice Losing $160 Every Time You Bill 55876?
Best bet: Be prepared to submit invoices and CPT book photocopiesMyth: You can't ever bill... Read more
PART B MYTHBUSTER:
Just Because Something Is 'Bundled,' Doesn't Mean You Can't Bill It
Your surgeon could gain an extra $1600 for osteotomyMyth: If two procedures are listed as ... Read more
Anesthesiologists May Bill Moderate Sedation Codes With Nerve Blocks
If an anesthesiologist provides anesthesia for diagnostic or therapeutic nerve blocks or i... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Say Goodbye To G0377--And Hello To Collecting From Patients
Don't waste your time billing Part D plansHeads up: You won't be able to bill Medicare Par... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Find Out Whether You're a 99217-99236 Coding Wizard
Don't get caught by these discharge code trapsIf you code all observation services the sam... Read more
Tackle Coding Observation Services Using Our Handy Chart
We break down the scenarios so you get the correct codeKeep your observation options strai... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Be Proactive In Opposing The Return Of PRO Auditors
Patients will come armed with questions, thanks to new siteA new bill to reform the Qualit... Read more
PART B REVENUE BOOSTER:
6 Surefire Tips To Boost Your Bottom Line
If you-re not up to date on codes, you could be losing cashFacing hard times in your ... Read more
CCI 13.3:
You Can Rescue Your Diskectomy-Arthroplasty Denials Soon
Cardiologists win narrow escape from pacemaker/ICD editsNeurosurgery news: One of  th... Read more
Don't Stand For X-Ray Denials On Admission Dates
Start appealing those denied radiology technical component (TC) claims, officials from the... Read more
SURGERY:
A Few Extra Words In Your Documentation Could Add $140
If every excision looks the same, it's time to ask questions Physicians at Aurora Health C... Read more
Times Blames Your Doctors For High Costs
High prescription-drug costs aren't the cause of the nation's rising healthcare costs, eco... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Make the Coding Grade With This True/False X-Ray Checkup
Don't fall prey to this common bilateral coding trapMedical X-rays have been around since ... Read more
Quiz:
Wondering if Your NPP Coding Is Up to Snuff? Test Yourself
Each time a nonphysician practitioner (NPP) provides services or treatment to a Medicare p... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
OIG To Oncologists--Tighten Your Belts
Electronic records may prevent fraud, but they don't improve careCancer practices are doin... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Tough Times Hit Many Specialty Practices -- Is Yours Next?
One practice resorts to borrowing to meet its payrollThink your practice is on an even kee... Read more
STUDIES & SURVEYS:
Say Goodbye To Drug Reps -- And Gain An Extra $12,000
Try this: Accept samples, but no chit chatEver hear the expression -There's no such thing ... Read more
Knee And Hip Surgeries Among The Fastest Growing
If your orthopedist is busier than ever, you shouldn't be surprised. Knee arthroplasties a... Read more
PART B REVENUE BUSTER:
Avoid This E/M Trap And Rescue Your Profits
Focus on harvesting 'low-hanging fruit,' and you'll boost your profitsSure, times have bee... Read more
COMPLIANCE:
'Professional Courtesy' Could Cost Your Practice Tens Of Thousands
A bribe is still a bribe, attorneys warnWarning: If your doctor shows -professional courte... Read more
You'll Have To Survive Summer Without NPI Data
- The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has once again delayed the long-a... Read more
NPIs:
You Could Be Missing Warnings Of Incorrect NPI/Legacy Number Combos
Watch out for common NPI billing problems Many physician claims could soon get lost i... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
4 Tips Eliminate The Irritation Of Coding Hemorrhoid Removal Procedures
Location matters more than number for all removal methodsIf you-re stuck looking for a cod... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Don't Take New ESA Coverage Limits Lying Down
Learn the new reason codes and rescue your crossover claimsYou should be contacting your m... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Urge Your Senator To Support House Version Of Health Bill
Once again, Congress opts for a short-term fix to your pay crisisWhen it comes to Medicare... Read more
PART B MYTHBUSTER:
Don't Let Your Doctors Shortchange Themselves For 'Routine' Visits
1 tell-tale sign that a follow-up visit may be a level fourMyth: If an established patient... Read more
CARDIOLOGY REVENUE BOOSTER:
Peripheral Procedures Could Spell Extra Reimbursement
Educate your physicians to document catheter placement for angiogramsWatch out: You could ... Read more
Throw Out Your Unlisted Codes For Electronic Brachytherapy
If your physician has been experimenting with cutting-edge electronic brachytherapy, then ... Read more
PART B MYTHBUSTER:
Exercise Your Right To Request A Reasonable Patient Payment Plan -- Here's How
Nominal payments don't create any obligation for youMyth: If a patient is sending you $5 p... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
OIG Wants To Squeeze Your Drug Payments Further
Doxorubic and Interferon are at the top of the hit listWarning: Your already low payments ... Read more
Absentee Doctors Can't Claim Supervision
If your physicians claim to have supervised treatments when they were away from the office... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Tackle the Top-3 ICD-9 Oncology Changes Before the Oct. 1 Deadline Hits
Tried-and-true tactics get your doctor's documentation on board with these more specific c... Read more
Size Up ICD-9 2008 Oncology Codes at a Glance
Red alert: Grace periods are in the past -- prep now for the Oct. 1 deadlineOncology is th... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Rural Counties Could Reap More Cash From Geographic Payment Fix
Plus: Don't hold your breath for NPI databasePhysicians who are getting shortchanged by th... Read more
LEGISLATION:
Want A Pay Boost? Call Your Congress Member Now
Don't wait until year's end to push for pay hikeGood news: With a 10-percent Medicare cut ... Read more
PART B REVENUE BOOSTER:
Grab An Extra $120 With Gall Bladder Removal
Watch for routine services and count the extra reimbursementWhen your general surgeon remo... Read more
LEGISLATION:
CHAMP Act Could K.O. Imaging Reimbursement
But you may also be able to say goodbye to annual pay-cut scaresNo more cliffhangers: The ... Read more
RECIPE FOR REIMBURSEMENT:
Look For Systemic Conditions That Support Moderate Sedation
Steer clear of bundled codes with 99143-99150So your Medicare carrier (or private payor) h... Read more
Watch Out For Added Fraud Audits
Medicare contractors may be turning up the heat on your claims soon. The HHS Office of Ins... Read more
TRANSMITTAL ROUNDUP:
Don't Try Billing Medicare For 78609
No NPI, no electronic fundsHeads up: Medicare's Internet-Only Manual (IOM) incorrectly sta... Read more
Democrats Push For Sweeping Medicare Changes
The CHAMP Act, currently facing a vote in the House, features a grab bag of Medicare propo... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Take 5 to Get a Jump on How ICD-9 2008 Will Affect You
Use these tactics to help your physician's documentation line up with new specific coding ... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Don't Forget The GS Modifier For High-Hemoglobin ESRD Patients
'Medical home' could improve outcomes for minority patients The Centers for Medicare &... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
Rally Your Carrier Around Moderate Sedation Coverage
Second doctor collaborating on sedation is best betMyth: Medicare won't ever pay for new m... Read more
PQRI:
Some Clearinghouses Are Muddying The PQRI Waters
Talk to your vendors, save your bonusWarning: Some clearinghouses may be sabotaging your e... Read more
CARDIOLOGY REVENUE BOOSTER:
Earn An Extra $400 With Unlisted Code For Transseptal Puncture
2 right ways and 1 wrong way to capture this extra reimbursementIt's a source of frustrati... Read more
AMBULATORY SURGERY CENTERS:
Gastro, Pain Management Docs Could Lose Money In ASCs
Tell CMS to reconsider the sweeping new ASC payment changesHeads up: If your physician has... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Don't Use 25 Modifier For Procedure The Day After E/M Visit
Leave HHA provider numbers off CPO claimsDo: When a patient comes in for an evaluation &am... Read more
Don't Paint A Bulls-Eye On Your Moderate Sedation Claims
Watch out: You can't bill moderate sedation codes 99143-99145 and 99148-99150 in the same ... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Think Prolonged Services Coding Is Too Complicated? Think Again
Learn what codes to use in both an inpatient and outpatient settingReporting prolonged ser... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Feds Turn Up The Heat On Your Practice
Medicare patients 4 times as likely to need emergency medicineWatch out: You could find yo... Read more
PQRI:
Your Business Partners Could Sabotage Your PQRI Ramp-Up
Strategy: Communicate with partners to make sure you're on the same pageYou may be all pri... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
How To Make Your E/M Documentation Bullet-Proof--Even With Few Symptoms
You can still bill a level-four E/M visit for a patient with abnormal test resultsMyth: Yo... Read more
COMPLIANCE:
New CMS Proposal Could Force You To Scrap Most Imaging Deals
The end result could be to force small physician practices out of businessMedicare isn't j... Read more
COMPLIANCE:
CMS May Put Your Joint Ventures Out Of Joint
5 common financial deals that may soon be illegalCall your lawyer: You could be stuck reth... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Avoid 3 Deadly Sins of Coronary Intervention Documentation
Discover why a 'shadow audit' could be your salvationIf your arterial stent documentation ... Read more
NCCI 13.1 Update:
Find Out How Angioplasty HCPCS Codes G0392-3
Angioplasty codes didn't escape the National Correct Coding Initiative's (NCCI) notice, an... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Switch To Q Codes For Albuterol, Levalbuterol
Backing of patients trying to bail out of Medicare Advantage plansEffective July 1, Part B... Read more
READER QUESTION:
Should Physical Therapists Bill Under Their Own Provider Numbers?
Make sure your PTs meet new certification requirementsQ: Can a physical therapist bill Med... Read more
PQRI:
Get Extra Credit For Tracking Patients' Hemoglobin A1C More Often
Your last-minute PQRI questions answeredAs practices ramped up to take part in the Physici... Read more
LEGISLATION:
Annual Pay Cuts Could Be A Thing Of The Past
But specialties may face their own spending targetsEvery year, physicians face a nail-biti... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Cardiologists, ER Docs Would Suffer Most From 9.9 Percent Cut
Good news for anesthesiologists, bad news for everyone elseBad news: Your Medicare payment... Read more
ENROLLMENT:
10 Mistakes That Could Scuttle Your Medicare Enrollment Applications
Your enrollment contact should be easy to reachIf you-re having trouble with your Medicare... Read more
PQRI:
Don't Forget Modifiers For Measures That Don't Fit The Facts
More answers to your last-minute PQRI questionsYou may just be starting to submit your cla... Read more
You Could Get Breathing Space From Managed Care Growth
If Medicare managed-care plans are scooping up your patients and imposing extra red tape, ... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Don't Forego Discontinued-Procedure Pay Due To Modifier Confusion
Get straight on modifiers 52 and 53When your physician discontinues a procedure, are you c... Read more
Doc On Summer Vacation? Ease Locum Tenens Headaches In 3 Steps
Scenario: One of your physicians will be out of the office for an extended period, and a f... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Don't Make Your Physician's Social Security Number Public, CMS Warns
Watch out: Inaccurate usage statistics could lead to sharp cuts in imaging payments Y... Read more
PART B MYTHBUSTER:
Audiologists Should Be Heard And Not Seen (By Your Doctor)
Don't bill 99211 for diagnostic testing servicesMyth: Audiologists should bill -incident t... Read more
NEUROSURGERY:
Put A Stop To X-Stop Denials With Communication
Don't bill 22855 and 22845 unless you can prove they're separateHeads up: Some Medicare ca... Read more
TRANSMITTAL ROUNDUP:
Medicare Could Auto-Deny 100 Percent Of Suspicious Claims
Make sure each NPI matches up to only one UPIN Watch out: Medicare's Program Safe... Read more
CONSULTS:
Treatment, Tests Don't Mean It's Not A Consult
But don't cut the requesting doctor out of the loopGood news: One carrier issued a new -fr... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Dodge Critical Care Mistakes By Dispelling 2 Myths
Here's what you need when reporting critical care -- and what you don'tA physician can pro... Read more
Do You Know The Critical Ingredients To A Successful Critical Care Claim?
Test yourself with this sample scenarioNow that you-ve busted the above two critical care ... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Hurry Up And Wait For NPI Database Access
Now's the time to double-check your information in the databaseJust when it seemed like yo... Read more
READER QUESTION:
Cut Out The Guesswork In Lesion Excision Coding
Ask your physician to specify the margin excisedQuestion: We-re confused about how to figu... Read more
PART B MYTHBUSTERS:
You Can Only Bill Fracture Code Once
Don't attract carrier scrutiny with the wrong diagnosis codeMyth: A patient with a bone fr... Read more
NPIs:
At Last You Can Look Up Other Doctors' NPIs
Don't leave your doctor's home address in the databaseAny day now you can download a new d... Read more
Path/Lab Codes Hit With More CCI Edits
The Correct Coding Initiative version 13.2 is probing molecular-probe codes deeply.A numbe... Read more
PART B MYTHBUSTER:
Don't Miss Out On Extra Diabetes Reimbursement
Think you can't bill Medicare for 2 screenings per year? Think again!Fact: The U.S. spends... Read more
CCI 13.2:
Watch Your Laparoscopy Coding On The Same Day As Surgery
No modifier will save you from new digestive surgery editsThe latest version of the C... Read more
CCI Grants Relief From Spinal Surgery Edits
CPT 2006 gave you some new codes for kyphoplasty and percutaneous vertebroplasty, and then... Read more
COMPLIANCE:
Don't Raise Suspicions With Hospital Buyout
If your doctors want out, they can't profit from their cloutIf your doctor wants to bail o... Read more
Consults, NPP Billing Lead To Big Payouts
Three physicians agreed to repay $1 million after they allegedly billed for services that ... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Flu Test Status Got You Stumped? Follow This Expert Advice
If you always reach for 87804, you could be mis-codingWhen your family physician tests a p... Read more
New Cardiac Arrest Codes Coming In Latest ICD-9
In the fall, ED coders will have some new ICD-9 codes to get used to, as the 2008 version ... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Dip Into CMS' 'Tool Kit' To Fine-Tune Your PQRI Planning
Anti-trust actions could stop your collaborations in their tracksNeed help with the P's an... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
Lesion Removal Ignorance Could Be Costing Your Practice Money
Make sure you cover your diagnosis-code basesMyth: Medicare won't pay for shave removal co... Read more
SPECIAL PQRI CRASH COURSE:
Learn The PQRI Ropes Now--Or Get Tied Knots
Start reporting quality indicators, whether or not your doctor met themIt's crunch time: I... Read more
Choose PQRI Measures You Know You Can Keep Up On
There are two ways to choose which PQRI measures to report on, say practices:Strategy #1: ... Read more
SPECIAL PQRI CRASH COURSE:
Alert--Your Physician May Be Meeting Quality Measures, But Not Documenting
Successful practices offer their tips on preparing for the PQRIPractices are gearing up to... Read more
SPECIAL PQRI CRASH COURSE:
Is It Worth The Extra Effort?
Some practices decide the PQRI bonus won't add upEye Center of Central Georgia was prepari... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
3 Ways to Do Dx Coding Right
Signs and symptoms may sometimes be your best choiceChoosing the right CPT procedure code ... Read more
Check The Diagnosis:
All Migranes Are Not the Same
Intractable vs. non-intractable can set your reimbursement successBefore coding for migrai... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Slow Down On Pay For Reporting/Performance, Senator Demands
CPT 2008 will lose more codes than it gainsYou could gain some breathing room on changes t... Read more
READER QUESTION:
When Should You Use The 79 Modifier For Post-Operative Issues?
How 'unrelated' is 'unrelated to the original surgery?Question: A recent issue of Part B I... Read more
PART B REVENUE BOOSTER:
Realize Your NPPs' Potential To Boost Productivity
2 steps to a more successful practiceWarning: If you-re not using your non-physician pract... Read more
FRAUD & ABUSE:
Use Modifiers In Moderation, Or Face Dire Consequences
More than a billion dollars spent on improper consults, watchdog warnsHeads up: Your use o... Read more
Part B Myth Buster:
NPPs Can Help With The Tough Cases, Too
Myth: Non-physician practitioners (NPPs) can handle only acute care, such as walk-in patie... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
Are You Setting This 59-Modifier Audit Bait?
Quick test can say for sureMyth: If you do two bundled procedures in the same session but ... Read more
MODIFIERS:
Look For Plan Or Expanded Procedure To Justify 58 Modifier
Check surgeon's notes, talk to surgeon to make sure 58 appliesAll the world may be a stage... Read more
Keep An Eye On Your Surgeons' Use Of the 78 Modifier
A previous issue of Part B Insider said that carriers have investigated some providers for... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
No Diagnosis? No Problem. Code Signs And Symptoms--And Get Paid
Don't make up your own extra digit for incomplete ICD-9 codesMyth: You should expect denia... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
3 Ways to Make the Most of Injection Claims
Train your MD to clearly document the muscles--so you can code correctlyYou may be submitt... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Brace Yourself For More Audits Of Debridement Services
60 percent of doctors could scale back on Medicare next yearRed alert: Nearly two-thirds o... Read more
ENROLLMENT:
Physician NPI Directory Scheduled At Last
HHS to make info available on the InternetYou finally have a date that you can expect a Na... Read more
Comment Now On Revised ABN
You can have another crack at commenting on the general Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN). ... Read more
PART B REVENUE BOOSTER:
If It's In Your Log, It Should Be In Your Charge Sheet
Get some closure by billing 13160 for a return to the ORTimes are getting tougher, and you... Read more
The 59 Modifier Is Not A Free Pass
Warning: You should only use modifier 59 to report nail debridement code CPT 11720 and les... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Could Your Practice Survive Wtih 40 Percent Less Cash?
'Bounty hunters' won't cover the costs of your appealsYour Medicare payments face a cut of... Read more
If You Only Report 2 Quality Measures, Make Sure You're Not Missing A Third
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will be posting worksheets to help ... Read more
DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT:
Your Doctors Can't Dispense DME To Anyone Else's Patients
Prepare for hassles with winning DME biddersAttention: Now's the time to make sure your ph... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Test Your Review-Of-Systems Knowledge For More Accurate Claims
2 expert scenarios help hone your E/M coding skillsBefore you report any E/M procedures, l... Read more
8 Key Tips Help You Reach The Right HPI Level Every Time
Understanding each patient's history of present illness (HPI) is key to top-notch E/M codi... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Watch Out For These Common Billing Errors
Prepare to bill Medicare for ultrasound cardiac monitoringYou can't write the word -SAME- ... Read more
REVENUE BOOSTER SPECIAL ISSUE:
A Half-Dozen Mistakes Per Week Could Spell $25,000 Revenue Drain
October through December could be your cash-losing monthsTimes are getting tougher for phy... Read more
SURGERY REVENUE BOOSTER:
Cap Could Be Once-In-A-Lifetime Opportunity -- To Lose Money
Take the time to capture your surgeon's time for pre-operative visitsSurgery practices: As... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
The End Of Surgery Doesn't Have To Be The End Of Your Reimbursement
The world doesn't always revolve around the global periodMyth: You can't bill for post-ope... Read more
SPECIALTY-SPECIFIC REVENUE BOOSTERS:
Gain An Extra 5 Anesthesia Units By Noting Catheter Placement
Don't cast away cast-application money.Heads up, anesthesiology coders: Are you reporting ... Read more
PART B REVENUE BOOSTER:
Your Front Desk Is On The Front Lines Of Capturing Reimbursement
Practice 'concurrent audits' to make sure you're not missing servicesImproving your practi... Read more
More Revenue Booster Tips
Are you billing for these 2 money-generating services? - The -Welcome To Medicare- exam -o... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Don't Stress Out--Spruce Up Your E/M Skills In A Flash
Bonus: Learn 2 E/M pitfalls that could clog up cardiology practice claimsReporting E/M cod... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
You Can Use UPINs For Referring Physicians Until May 2008
Start testing your PQRI claims submission nowAt last, the requirements for the National Pr... Read more
LEGISLATION:
Your Doctor's Back Taxes Could Come Out Of Your Hide
Tell your senator how you feel about the Levin-Coleman billHow much do you know about your... Read more
ANESTHESIA:
Be Prepared For Your Carrier To Demand Out-Of-Date Modifiers
6 tips for getting paid for MAC claimsDon't take your carrier's anesthesia policies for gr... Read more
ICD-9:
Diabetes Coding Will Become More Accurate In Late '08
New codes will distinguish between disease- and drug-related diabetesHang in there: The lo... Read more
Norwalk Out, Weems In At CMS
President Bush has nominated Department of Health and Human Services official Kerry Weems ... Read more
MYTHBUSTER UPDATE:
2 Doctors, Simultaneous Critical Care Could Lead To Denials
Check your local carrier's policiesMyth: There's no national policy forbidding concurrent ... Read more
Don't Miss Out On Your ED Physician's Consults Income
Think emergency department (ED) physicians don't do consultations? Think again! ED doctors... Read more
PQRI:
Be Alert--You Won't Know If You're Meeting PQRI Requirements
Look for instances of your doctors providing care outside their specialtiesIt's confusing ... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Ace Your Diagnostic Angiogram Coding--Our Experts Show You How
3 exceptions allow you to report angiograms separately from prior onesIf you-re wondering ... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Medicare May Single Out Expensive Doctors, Bundle More Services
Change is in the air for physicians billing MedicareWarning: Drastic moves to slash at the... Read more
NPIs:
New Drop-Dead NPI Deadline May Be As Soon As July
But you have until May 2008 to include referring docs' new numbers That wiggle room you-r... Read more
ICD-9 CODES:
Fit The Correct Lymphoma Diagnosis To The Drug To Ensure Payment
Dysphagia, genetic history codes gain fifth digitsYou-ll have 54 new lymphoma codes to mas... Read more
QUALITY REPORTING:
Less Than 2 Months Remain To Win 1.5 Percent Bonus
Educate your staff and perform a test run soonAre you ready to throw away thousands of dol... Read more
Your Quality Data Could Lead To Comparison Shopping
Watch out: The quality data you provide to CMS for the Physician Quality Reporting Initiat... Read more
SPECIALTY HOSPITALS:
CMS Lets Physician Ownership Cat Out Of The Bag
New ASC rule may cap doctors' payments at office ratesIf your physicians own or operate a ... Read more
OIG Adds To Blame-The-Providers Dogpile At Carriers
If you-re frustrated by Medicare enrollment delays, they may be your own fault, according ... Read more
COVERAGE:
CMS Throws The Brakes On Expanding Your CAS Payments
The only hope for many patients: clinical trialsYou can stop looking out for asymptomatic ... Read more
Medicare Could Split Updates Between Procedures And E/M Visits
As the nation's over-65 population doubles between 2000 and 2030, patients will be demandi... Read more
Medicare Should Put High-Cost Doctors Under Lens, GAO Says
Doctors with the highest number of expensive patients were also the ones most likely to pr... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Dodge This Disastrous IMRT Planning Pitfall
What's your payor's rule on 77301 and forward planning?A lot of work goes into planning in... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Sloppy Billing Could Be Costing Your Practice More Than Money
Also, pay attention to details of bariatric surgery requirementsIf your billing processes ... Read more
PART B MYTH-BUSTER:
Don't Let Fear Of Concurrent Billing Curtail Your Critical Care
Patient must really be critically illMyth: Two providers can't bill for critical care for ... Read more
MANAGEMENT:
Make Sure You're Not Holding Too Long To Your Claims
You can't manage what you don't measure, experts cautionSo you-ve got a handle on your acc... Read more
NPIs:
Avoid Payment Hold-Ups With 'Good Faith Effort' On NPIs
Tips: to help you navigate the NPI gray areasIf some of the payors you deal with or some o... Read more
LESION DESTRUCTION:
Only One Diagnosis Will Get You Paid For 17000-17004
Keep number of units straight for 17003 and 17111Heads up: Relying on your carrier's local... Read more
CONSULTS:
Consult Confusion Will Continue Into Next Year
Agonizing audits may settle the issueWhat's the difference between a consult and a transfe... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Here's The Key To Your Top 3 Vasectomy Claim Conundrums
Plus: One step you can't miss before you report prevasectomy visitsChoosing the correct pr... Read more
Quick Quiz:
Test Your Grasp of New, Updated Urology Codes and Bundles
5 questions help you get a grip on CPT 2007's changes and the latest NCCI editsStill tryin... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
RACs Go Wild On One Practice's Neupogen Billings
Medicare 'bounty hunters' coming to your state soonMake your voice heard: The Physicians R... Read more
NPIs:
Providers Breathe A Little Easier With 1-Year NPI Extension
CMS admits defeat, promises progress on NPI-sharingGood news: You-ll have an extra year to... Read more
NPIs:
Extra NPI Leeway May Be A Trap--Watch For This Glitch
Don't expect everybody else to be up to speed in timeYou now have an extra year to get up ... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Make Sure Your Doctor Signs Off On Nurse's Portion Of Visit
Don't miss out on reimbursement for post-bariatric excess skin removalHeads up: If yo... Read more
PART B MYTH-BUSTER:
Learn The Difference Between 'Requirements' And 'Received Wisdom'
6 more myths that could turn off your cash flowYou could be accepting patients you don't n... Read more
Medicare Already Has Toolkit For Finding Wasteful Doctors
Medicare could use -profiling- to find physicians who are providing too many services or b... Read more
MODIFIERS:
Are You Using Basic Modifiers Correctly? Time To Double-Check
Billing and rendering provider must be in the same groupYou may think you know your ABCs w... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Master These 7 Radiology Coding Updates
Don't miss new provider notes for 70554, 70555CPT 2007 brought lots of changes to radiolo... Read more
Clip and Save:
Say Goodbye to 2006 Mammogram Codes
Here's a 2006-to-2007 crosswalk of some of your most used radiology codesCPT 2007 offers u... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
CMS Unveils Quality Reporting Specs
Master the 1P, 2P and 3P modifiers to protect your bonusHeads up: You have less than three... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
4 Deadly Myths That Could Wreck Your Practice
Test yourself against these coding and compliance pitfallsDoes your staff subscribe to any... Read more
CODING & COMPLIANCE:
Don't Turn Your E/M Claims Into Audit Bait
Look for questions that go beyond the patient's 'chief complaint'When assigning an evaluat... Read more
ENROLLMENT:
You Could Advance 4 Months' Credit To Medicare For New Doctors
Enrollment disasters leave practices in cash-flow limboIf your carrier is First Coast Serv... Read more
QUALITY REPORTING:
Improve Communication Between Clinical And Admin Sides--Or Lose Out
It's not too early to start figuring out how to capture quality dataWhile your physicians ... Read more
QUALITY REPORTING:
Why You Could Do Everything Right And Still Not Receive The 1.5-Percent Bonus
The PQRI "cap" may force you to report more servicesAs paltry as the 1.5-percent bonus for... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Apply These Epicardial Electrode Edits and Increase Your Coding Accuracy
Learn what good news you can apply to your E/M coding practicesThe overriding trend for NC... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
The Patient's Main Medical Brain Is Difficult To Explain
Apply early for replacements for doctors on military dutyEven if Medicare figures out how ... Read more
QUALITY REPORTING:
Can You Hire An Extra Coder For 75 Cents An Hour?
Doctors question whether 1.5-percent bonus is worth extra workThe July 1 deadline to start... Read more
ULTRASOUND:
6 Tips To Make Billing The New AAA Screening Easy
Document your 'Welcome To Medicare' referralYour practice may soon be receiving referrals ... Read more
CCI 13.1:
Start Resubmitting Denied Cystourethroscopy, Craniotomy Claims
You can't use a modifier to override dozens of edits anymoreHeads up: The Correct Coding I... Read more
CCI 13.1:
Don't Bill Chemodenervation With Neurological Testing
You can't ever bill two hospital visits to the same patient on the same dayThere's no reas... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
One Statement Could Rescue Your E/M Coding Levels
But don't fall into 'double dipping' unless you're sure you can justify itMyth: You can't ... Read more
BILLING:
Stop Rushing to Switch Over to the New CMS-1500
CMS gives you a breather due to incorrect formsDon't discard your old CMS-1500 forms just ... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
When Wound Repair Isn't Enough, Turn to Tissue Transfers--6 Steps Show You How
You won't report lesion excision separatelyWhen the surgeon performs an adjacent tissue tr... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
NPIs Won't Replace Medicare Numbers
Get ready for more paperwork headaches under a dual number system for surveysThink the Nat... Read more
RADIATION THERAPY:
CCI 13.1 Will Delete Troublesome Stereotactic Edits
But you can't bill radiation therapy management with X-ray guidanceRadiation therapy provi... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
'Bounty Hunters' May Be Scrutinizing Your Inpatient E/M Visits
Beware:  An office visit can't count as a hospital admissionMyth: Your doctor can bil... Read more
NATIONAL PROVIDER IDENTIFIER:
Will May Bring You A Shower Of NPI-Related Denials?
You'll have 'guidance' by deadline, CMS promisesHeads up: There are just about two months ... Read more
QUALITY:
Make Sure Your Doctor Knows Which Quality Measures Apply
Thousands of dollars could depend on a few extra "G" codesWith your practice's margins nar... Read more
Two At A Time Doesn't Count As 'Continuous,' Court Rules
An anesthesiologist who routinely billed for sedation and nerve-block services for two pat... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Are You Ready For A Conversion Factor Of $34.14?
Senate hearing results in no answersIf the experts can't even figure out how to rescue you... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Perfect Your Cholecystectomy Claims--Our Expert Advice Shows You How
Open vs. laparoscopic is one of several important factorsDo you want to be sure that you-r... Read more
Call on V64.41 Dx. When Reporting Conversions
If the surgeon converts a lap chole to an open procedure, be sure to include V64.41 (Lapar... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Medicare Fraud-Hunters Expand Nationwide
Imaging providers fight back against unfair cutsThe Recovery Audit Contractors (RACs) will... Read more
ADVANCE BENEFICIARY NOTICES:
Say Goodbye To Payment Up Front For Non-Covered Services
Take your opportunity to comment on new ABN formIf the Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN) fo... Read more
ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORDS:
Beware--Too Much Cutting And Pasting Could Wound You
Will your doctor's E/M notes stand up to EHR audit scrutiny?Your electronic health records... Read more
ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORDS:
Talk To Your Vendor Now About Improving Your EHR System
Even the best documentation may not stand up in courtDon't wait until RTI International fi... Read more
CARDIOLOGY:
Keep Your Eyes Open For 'Slang Terms' For Coronary Blood Flow Measurement
Payments have gone up, and primary procedure list has grownHeads up: You could be letting ... Read more
Health Care Costs Will Double In 10 Years, CMS Analysts Predict
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services- Office of the Actuary has released a rep... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
The ABN Is Not A Cure-All For Your Non-Paid Services
You can't use ABNs to collect extra from patientsConfused by the extra paperwork of Advanc... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Otolaryngologists--Learn the Must-Know Principles of Turbinate Surgeries
Do you know your excision from your reduction?  Reimbursement depends on itConsiderin... Read more
Turbinate Surgery Decision Matrix:
Select the Correct Turbinate Procedure Code Every Time With This Simple Tool
If your head spins when your surgeon performs a turbinate surgery, you can alleviate your ... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Is The AMA Discriminating Against Alternative Medicine?
Consumer choice doesn't extend to extra codes, critics chargeThe American Medical Associat... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
Don't Miss Reimbursement Opportunities With 51798
You can bill a distinct E/M visit separatelyDo you know the score about bladder scan code ... Read more
COMPLIANCE:
Refund Any Payments You Received For Doc-Owned PET Scans Since January
You have 3 options to keep your stake in nuclear medicine or PET scansHeads up: As of Jan.... Read more
E/M CODING:
7 Tips To Keep Your Inpatient E/M Coding On The Up-And-Up
Medicare overspends millions on upcoded inpatient visitsThe carriers are scrutinizing your... Read more
SPECIALTY HOSPITALS:
Texas 911 Call Could Spell An Emergency For Your Doctor's Specialty Hospital
3 questions your doctor should be askingThe weather forecast for doctor-owned specialty ho... Read more
Make Sure Your Office Has An Emergency Policy Too
The misfortunes of West Texas Hospital should be a wake-up call for your physician office,... Read more
TRANSMITTAL ROUNDUP:
The Faster You Answer Development Letters, The Sooner The 45-Day Clock Restarts
3 pump codes no longer covered in SNFsCarriers should process -other-than-clean- claims wi... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Learn How 2007 TC Pay Cuts Will Cramp Your Radiology Budget
Plus: Get the latest on AAA screening coverageKeeping track of payor updates at this time ... Read more
Nix NCCI Edit Headaches With This Override Tip
Good news: In certain circumstances you may override NCCI edits and achieve separate reimb... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
New Quality Measures Adapt To EMRs, Include Cost Of Care
Now's your chance to comment on proposed standardsYet another organization wants to examin... Read more
CARDIOLOGY:
Start Identifying Asymptomatic Patients With Advanced Stenosis
Don't wait until patients develop symptoms to look into stentingGood news: Your cardiologi... Read more
BILLING:
Are Computer Glitches Eating Your Reimbursement?
Medicare denied up to 300,000 claims by mistakeYou need to be vigilant for computer billin... Read more
Insulin Urban Legend Can Make Your Life Difficult
Myth: You should list your patient as having Type I diabetes if the patient needs insulin.... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
One Wrong Digit Could Send Your 83037 Claims Into The Denial Pile
Check to make sure the FDA approved your test kit for home useMyth: You can't report new h... Read more
Bush Budget Leaves Doctors Out In The Cold, ACP Warns
President Bush-s 2008 budget proposed $70 billion in cuts to Medicare spending. Though he ... Read more
NEUROLOGY:
Don't Bill Nerve Conduction Studies Unless You Can Document Necessity
Carrier will monitor NCS billings for problemsWatch out: If a manufacturer's rep tries to ... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Are Your Claims On This Carrier's Greatest Hits List?
Update your modifier list, and check your provider's enrollment datesThis is one -top 10- ... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
6 Steps Promise Diabetes Coding Success
Note: Complications need special attentionDiabetes refers to diabetes mellitus or, less of... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
OIG Is Watching Your Doctor's Nursing Home Visits
Part B payments 'vulnerable to fraud,' watchdog saysNursing homes could be hotbeds of inap... Read more
CONSULTS:
Crackdown May Hit Your Subspecialty Consults Extra Hard
Use modifier 77 and make sure your diagnosis codes are differentHeads up: You may be seein... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
Don't Let "Unacceptable" List Scare You Away From "V" Codes
Mistake: Listing preop "V" codes as primary without including secondary diagnosisMyth: You... Read more
Feds Chairman Urges Steep Medicare Cuts
The right time to start slashing Medicare spending was -10 years ago,- Federal Reserve Cha... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Benchmark Your Denials--Or Find Yourself Benched
Check by payor, site, procedure code and other factorsWatch out: Are you keeping track of ... Read more
Quality Guidelines Paid Off For Chronic Patients
Your practice could see a reimbursement boost--but also more quality guidelines--if a new ... Read more
CARDIOLOGY:
Be Prepared To Fight For Reimbursement For 93508 With 92980
Don't use 93508 for "roadmap to stent placement"Is your cardiologist receiving proper reim... Read more
Transmittal Roundup:
Start Billing For Diabetes Self-management Training
Medicare will cover 10 hours of initial self-management training for a patient diagnosed w... Read more
DIAGNOSIS CODING:
Urge Your Carrier To Expand 1500 Form To Recognize Multiple Diagnoses
Take advantage of larger space for diagnosis codes in JulyComplex patients require more th... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Quiz--Is Your MD Guilty of This $650 CT Documentation Mistake?
When doctors jumble exam reports, auditors may target your claimYou know your physician's ... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Quiz Answers
Quiz AnswersDid you come up with the same answer as our coding expert?If you had perfect d... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Solo Practices Fall Short With Heart-Attack Treatments
Is your doctor working well with others?When it comes to preventing future problems and tr... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
The Bell Curve Won't Shield You From Modifier 25 Scrutiny
Good documentation is the key to surviving an auditMyth: If you bill mostly 99213s and kee... Read more
CARDIOLOGY:
Stick With 85610 And 99211 For Coumadin Management
Medicare dashes Coumadin clinics- hopes for reimbursementProviders were excited when CPT 2... Read more
RADIOLOGY:
Imaging Providers Could Go Under Due To Cuts
3 tips for coping with the tough new environmentIt's a tough time to provide in-office ima... Read more
Urge Congress To Listen To Its Advisors And Scrap 10 Percent Cut
If the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) ran the world, you wouldn't have to w... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
Don't Miss Out On 1.5 Percent Payment Boost Next Summer
12 tips for securing your share Starting July 1, a chunk of your reimbursement will depend... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
How To Get Up To Speed On The New CMS-1500 Form
Make sure your software is ready to handle the changesJust when you think you-re prepared ... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
How Much Do You Know About V Codes? Find Out Fast
Test your diagnosis coding knowledge with these 4 questionsIf you think V codes are only f... Read more
PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Start Sharing Those NPIs Now To Avoid A Crunch In May
Write to your Senator now about colonoscopy loopholeStarting in May, you could have to lis... Read more
GASTROENTEROLOGY:
Scratching Your Head Over New Mystery HCPCS Code?
G0394 is not for screening -- find out what it is forJust when you thought fecal occult bl... Read more
PART B MYTH BUSTER:
Discover Why Lesion Excisions Don't Need To Add Up
Pay attention to your non-Medicare carriers' policies on multiple lesionsMyth: When your d... Read more
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE:
The ABCs of A/R--Learn How To Measure Your Payment Lag
All your questions about "days in A/R" answered belowCollections can be hard enough to man... Read more
TRANSMITTAL ROUNDUP:
Be Prepared To Re-Enroll In Medicare If You Enrolled Prior To 2002
IVIG add-on continues, telehealth fee goes upIt's official: If you enrolled in Medicare be... Read more
ORTHOPEDICS:
When It Comes to Synvisc, Ignore HCPCS 2007
CMS deletes brand-new Synvisc/Hyalgan drug code before it even takes effectOrthopedic code... Read more
Part B Coding Coach:
Welcome These New Category III Codes for 'X Stop' Procedures
Introduction of 'T' code a good sign for this spinal stenosis treatmentJanuary is a time t... Read more
NPIs:
Valentine's Day Is Your Doctor's Deadline For Medicare Enrollment
Tell CMS what you really think of your carrier's performanceThe Centers for Medicare ... Read more
Available Years:  2007  2006  2005  2004  2003