Part B Insider (Multispecialty) Coding Alert
In other news ...• The OIG never forgets a recommendation -- particularly when
To remind practices of the outstanding recommendations that the OIG suggested but that have not been implemented yet, the inspector general published a 108-page document outlining the initiatives that if implemented, have the potential to result in cost savings and improvements to program efficiency and effectiveness. Among the unimplemented recommendations is one that would encourage carriers to conduct pre-and post-payment reviews of the use of modifier 59 (Distinct procedural service). The OIG estimates that the government could save $59 million by more closely monitoring the claims that Medicare pays for modifier 59. However, the report notes, CMS has not yet implemented edits to ensure correct coding. To read the complete OIG report, visit www.oig.hhs.gov/publications/docs/compendium/compendium2009.pdf.
Part B Insider (Multispecialty) Coding Alert
- MEDICARE FEE SCHEDULE:
CMS Adds 5 New Codes Effective July 1, Changes Bilateral Status
Check out these changes to the 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedules mid-year update. Youll have [...] - PART B MYTHBUSTER:
Auditors Review the Op Note -- Not Just Its Title
Plus: Bust this myth about same-day E/M services. Myth: The title of your physicians medical [...] - LESION CODING:
Confused by Recent Lesion Coding Directives From NGS? Here's the Scoop
Stick with what you know about lesion excision coding, experts say. If the recent National [...] - LESION CODING QUIZ:
Take This Lesion Coding Quiz to Ensure That Your Skills Jibe With Payer Rules
Determine whether youve got top-notch lesion coding skills -- or whether you need a refresher. [...] - READER QUESTION:
Count Minutes on 'Counseling Exception' Claims
Non-physician practitioner claims may merit time-based E/M coding -- check notes to be sure. Question: A [...] - PART B CODING COACH:
Double Your $$ When You Spot E/M + Burn
Know the key component of 16000 and put burn coding questions on ice. When an [...] - PHYSICIAN NOTES:
Make a Mistake on Paper Claim Form? Start Over Rather Than 'Whiting Out' the Error, One Carrier Says
Plus: OIG reveals 108 pages of recommendations that havent been implemented. Practices submitting paper claims [...] - In other news ...• The OIG never forgets a recommendation -- particularly when
To remind practices of the outstanding recommendations that the OIG suggested but that have not [...]
