Part B Insider (Multispecialty) Coding Alert

Plus: Texas physician indicted in $1.4 million fraud scheme.

Now that the government shutdown is behind us, CMS has started sending out its updates once more, and the latest word is actually a bit of good news.

Providers who have experienced issues accessing the PECOS enrollment system will be glad to hear that CMS updated the software on Oct. 7 to "improve the user experience when registering as an individual practitioner, authorized or delegated official of an organization, or someone working within PECOS on behalf of a provider or supplier (also known as a surrogate)," CMS said in an Oct. 17 announcement.

Thanks to the update, you’ll be able to reset your user ID and password right from your computer, without having to wait on hold for the CMS Help Desk. In addition, designated authorized officials who are already on file with Medicare will be able to get approved access to PECOS quickly without having to submit verification documents to CMS.

CMS will be hosting a free conference call to lead you through the changes on Nov. 15 from 2:00 to 3:15 EST. To register, visit www.eventsvc.com/blhtechnologies.