Question:
What does Medicare policy say about us doing a physical therapy evaluation? He's a new patient to us, but had a full evaluation and certification for physical therapy for the same diagnosis at the previous rehab facility. Does Medicare limit us from billing a second evaluation for the same diagnosis?
-- Wisconsin subscriber
Answer:
No, Medicare policy does not limit you from billing a second evaluation for the same diagnosis in this situation. If you look at the definition of evaluation in CMS Pub 102, Chapter 15, Section 220, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services states that an evaluation is warranted when the condition is treated in a new setting or for a new diagnosis. Your example would qualify as a new setting since you are a different provider.