Part B Insider (Multispecialty) Coding Alert
CMS Releases Collagen Implant Code
Plus: CMS still hasn't confirmed an administrator. It may be the middle of the year, but CMS isn't done adding codes to take effect for 2010. On June 25, CMS announced changes to the 2010 Fee Schedule, from introducing new codes to changing the multiple procedure indicators on others. For instance, you'll find that the multiple procedure indicator for code 36148 (Introduction of needle and/or catheter, arteriovenous shunt created for dialysis (graft/fistula); additional access for therapeutic intervention) is now 0 (effective for dates of service Jan. 1, 2010 and afterward), meaning that the multiple procedure concept does not apply. Previously, the multiple procedure indicator on this code was 2 (meaning that the multiple procedure criteria used to apply to the code). In addition to changing the procedure status codes on 36148 and other services, CMS also announced recently that it introduced several new codes, including the following: G0429 - Dermal filler injection for the treatment of facial lipodystrophy syndrome (LDS) (e.g., as a result of highly active antiretroviral therapy, effective March 23, 2010 Q2026 - Injection, Radiesse, 0.1 ml, effective March 23, 2010 Q2027 - Injection, Sculptra, 0.1 ml, effective March 23, 2010 G0428 - Collagen meniscus implant procedure for filling meniscal defects (e.g., CMI, collagen scaffold, Menaflex), effective May 25, 2010 To read the MLN Matters article announcing the Fee Schedule changes, visit www.cms.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6974.pdf. In other news... Don't expect a new CMS Administrator any time soon.
No confirmation hearing is yet set for the controversial nominee for CMS's top spot. Republicans seem poised to use the nomination as an opportunity to review their opposition to the health care reforms enacted this year.
The CMS Administrator spot has been open since October 2006.
Part B Insider (Multispecialty) Coding Alert
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No word yet from CMS on whether the 1500 form will change soon.If you're considering [...] - Reader Question:
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Differentiate brief history of present illness from extended with these tips.Question:Our coding staff has a [...] - Part B Coding Coach:
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Here's when you can code past the three E/M component levels.The physician provides an E/M [...] - E/M Best Practices:
Master New Patient E/Ms or Leave Cash on the Table
Financial fallout can be considerable if you eschew new patient codes too often.For medical practices, [...] - Physician Notes:
CMS Releases Collagen Implant Code
Plus: CMS still hasn't confirmed an administrator.It may be the middle of the year, but [...]
