Gastroenterology Coding Alert

The AMA has a new no-cost service that allows users to look up the definitions of CPT codes and related Medicare reimbursement rates. The CPT Code/Value Search database can be accessed either by CPT code or keyword descriptor. Users are also asked what city and state they are from so a geographically adjusted Medicare payment fee can appear next to the codes CPT description.
 
During the past year, CMS has implemented stricter regulations with providers on the advance beneficiary notice. Part of the purpose for the new service is to give Medicare patients a way to check how much a potential procedure could cost. Nobody should put off reporting a condition or symptom to their physician because of the cost, but patients have a right to know how much they or their insurer could end up paying, said Timothy Flaherty, MD, AMA chairman, in a prepared statement.
 
Because the database is not intended for office or commercial use, individuals are limited to 10 searches per day. Up to five CPT codes can be entered for each search. The database can be accessed by going to the AMAs online CPT section at https://webstore.ama-assn.org and following the links to the CPT Code/Value Search. (Enter Web address as shown; https is required.)