72 hour rule

[KGagne825]

Hello,
Would you be able to direct me where I can find information regarding the 72 hour rule regarding encounter closures for providers?
Thank you!

 

[podcoder70]

Your question is a great one! CMS requires that encounter documents are completed in a "timely manner" and completion includes signature. They also require that the encounter is completed PRIOR to submitting a claim for said services.
Palmetto says "during or as soon as practicable after it is provided in order to maintain an accurate medical record" and "CMS does not provide any specific period, but a reasonable expectation would be no more than a couple of days away from the service itself."
Here is the link:

https://palmettogba.com/palmetto/jma.nsf/DIDC/9VTLBC1017~Medical%20Review

Noridian states the following: "Q3. After a service has been rendered, what amount of time is acceptable to Medicare for the doctor to sign the notes? A3. In most cases, Noridian expects that the notes are signed at the time services are rendered. Further delays may require an explanation. See CMS Internet Only Manual (IOM), Publication 100-08, Medicare Program Integrity Manual, Section 3.3.2.5

."
FCSO states “Medicare expects the documentation to be generated at the time of service or shortly thereafter. Delayed entries within a reasonable time frame (24 to 48 hours) are acceptable for purposes of clarification, error correction, the addition of information not initially available, and if certain unusual circumstances prevented the generation of the note at the time of service.”
AAPC has an article here

https://www.aapc.com/blog/25667-medical-record-entries-what-is-timely-and-reasonable/#:~:text=Delayed%20entries%20within%20a%20reasonable,at%20the%20time%20of%20service.%E2%80%9D