Primary Care Coding Alert
CPT 2005:
Get Immunization Work Pay When Encounter Meets 2 Criteria
4 age-, provider-specific 904xx codes ease your vaccine claimsYour family physician (FP) w... Read more
Get Immunization Work Pay When Encounter Meets 2 Criteria
4 age-, provider-specific 904xx codes ease your vaccine claimsYour family physician (FP) w... Read more
Pediatric Coding Corner:
You No Longer Have to Struggle With 2 Neonatal Definitions
CPT 2005 conforms to ICD-9, WHO's 28-day periodIf you're tired of trying to remember wheth... Read more
You No Longer Have to Struggle With 2 Neonatal Definitions
CPT 2005 conforms to ICD-9, WHO's 28-day periodIf you're tired of trying to remember wheth... Read more
90465-90468 Versus 90471-90474:
Ask 2 Questions to Choose the Right Vaccine-Administration Code Set
... Read more
Ask 2 Questions to Choose the Right Vaccine-Administration Code Set
... Read more
Reader Question:
Check Date When Coding Admission From ED
Question: When our family physician (FP) admits a patient to the hospital after hours from... Read more
Check Date When Coding Admission From ED
Question: When our family physician (FP) admits a patient to the hospital after hours from... Read more
Reader Question:
Modifier -90 Isn't Your Lab-Test Code Ticket
Question: When we send specimens to the lab, we code the test with modifier -90 and add a ... Read more
Modifier -90 Isn't Your Lab-Test Code Ticket
Question: When we send specimens to the lab, we code the test with modifier -90 and add a ... Read more
Reader Question:
Track Performance Measures With Category II Codes
Question: I saw numerous additions and deletions to CPT 2005's F codes. When should I repo... Read more
Track Performance Measures With Category II Codes
Question: I saw numerous additions and deletions to CPT 2005's F codes. When should I repo... Read more
Reader Question:
What's Missing Determines 707.00 Versus 707.09
Question: I noticed that ICD-9 2005 added an "unspecified site" and "another specified" de... Read more
What's Missing Determines 707.00 Versus 707.09
Question: I noticed that ICD-9 2005 added an "unspecified site" and "another specified" de... Read more
Reader Question:
FP's Role Determines Fracture or Casting Code
Question: A family physician (FP) sees a patient to determine if her fracture has healed. ... Read more
FP's Role Determines Fracture or Casting Code
Question: A family physician (FP) sees a patient to determine if her fracture has healed. ... Read more
Reader Question:
3 Ways You Can Code a Health Review
Question: Our office requires that new adult patients have a "new established visit." Duri... Read more
3 Ways You Can Code a Health Review
Question: Our office requires that new adult patients have a "new established visit." Duri... Read more
You Be the Coder
How to Code This Season's Influenza Prevention Question: A nurse administered a flu shot ... Read more
How to Code This Season's Influenza Prevention Question: A nurse administered a flu shot ... Read more
ICD-9 2005's Biggest Family Physician Change:
Insulin and Age No Longer Matter When Coding Diabetes
Choose type I or II dx based on pancreatic beta cell condition Your diabetes coding strug... Read more
Insulin and Age No Longer Matter When Coding Diabetes
Choose type I or II dx based on pancreatic beta cell condition Your diabetes coding strug... Read more
Success Story:
Yes, FP Coders, There Is a Tylenol Code
Reviewed on May 22, 2015 Private insurers may pay a quarter per pill When your famil... Read more
Yes, FP Coders, There Is a Tylenol Code
Reviewed on May 22, 2015 Private insurers may pay a quarter per pill When your famil... Read more
3 Easy Steps Make Coding 250's Fifth Digit a Snap
Tip: Look for type, status when assigning diabetes diagnosis You can submit diabetes ... Read more
Tip: Look for type, status when assigning diabetes diagnosis You can submit diabetes ... Read more
Action Plan:
Add 2 Diagnostic Changes to Your Encounter Sheet
Our quiz shows you how to use new decubitus ulcer, Pap-smear result codes Starting Oct. 1... Read more
Add 2 Diagnostic Changes to Your Encounter Sheet
Our quiz shows you how to use new decubitus ulcer, Pap-smear result codes Starting Oct. 1... Read more
Pediatric Coding Corner:
Find Out the Best Ways to Use New V01.xx Codes
College-town FPs: V01.84 explains meningitis-outbreak evaluations Do you wonder which di... Read more
Find Out the Best Ways to Use New V01.xx Codes
College-town FPs: V01.84 explains meningitis-outbreak evaluations Do you wonder which di... Read more
Here's Why the 5th Digit Isn't Always the Key to Accurate ICD-9 Coding
Get the expert tips you need to prevent denials If you are submitting CPT codes with thre... Read more
Get the expert tips you need to prevent denials If you are submitting CPT codes with thre... Read more
You Be the Expert:
Has ICD-9 Coding Lost Its Grace?
Question: Has CMS ended the 90-day grace period for getting used to new ICD-9 codes? I've ... Read more
Has ICD-9 Coding Lost Its Grace?
Question: Has CMS ended the 90-day grace period for getting used to new ICD-9 codes? I've ... Read more
Want More ICD-9 Coding Success? Try Better Communication
Doctor should always approve ICD-9 codes, experts say You have a right way and a wrong wa... Read more
Doctor should always approve ICD-9 codes, experts say You have a right way and a wrong wa... Read more
Reader Questions:
Significant Work Justifies Separate Sick Visit
Question: Please suggest how I should code the following typical scenario: A 38-year-... Read more
Significant Work Justifies Separate Sick Visit
Question: Please suggest how I should code the following typical scenario: A 38-year-... Read more
Reader Questions:
99303 Includes Assessing Patient at New Locale
Question: A nursing-home patient transfers to a different nursing home but remains under t... Read more
99303 Includes Assessing Patient at New Locale
Question: A nursing-home patient transfers to a different nursing home but remains under t... Read more
Reader Questions:
Bill Acne Steroid Injection as 11900, J3301
Question: A family physician injects an acne cyst with 0.05 cc of Kenalog. How should I co... Read more
Bill Acne Steroid Injection as 11900, J3301
Question: A family physician injects an acne cyst with 0.05 cc of Kenalog. How should I co... Read more
Reader Questions:
You Usually Shouldn't Bill 36000
Question: When I filed 36000 with 99214-25 and 99195, Medicare denied 36000 as inclusive/b... Read more
You Usually Shouldn't Bill 36000
Question: When I filed 36000 with 99214-25 and 99195, Medicare denied 36000 as inclusive/b... Read more
Reader Question:
Probable Diagnoses Just Don't Cut It
Question: A pediatric patient with symptoms of asthma comes to our practice for the first ... Read more
Probable Diagnoses Just Don't Cut It
Question: A pediatric patient with symptoms of asthma comes to our practice for the first ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
How to Differentiate 2 Male Sexual Disorder Dxs
Question: Which diagnosis code should I use for erectile dysfunction (ED)?Missouri Subscri... Read more
How to Differentiate 2 Male Sexual Disorder Dxs
Question: Which diagnosis code should I use for erectile dysfunction (ED)?Missouri Subscri... Read more
3 Easy Tips for Coding Physical Therapy
Don't use 97110 as a one-size-fits-all exercise codeDo you know what provider contact 9703... Read more
Don't use 97110 as a one-size-fits-all exercise codeDo you know what provider contact 9703... Read more
Pediatric Coding Corner:
Case Study: Get the 4 Answers You Need When Coding OM
Move beyond 382.9 to obtain the reimbursement you deserveWhen you report otitis media (OM)... Read more
Case Study: Get the 4 Answers You Need When Coding OM
Move beyond 382.9 to obtain the reimbursement you deserveWhen you report otitis media (OM)... Read more
Myth Buster:
You Don't Have to Rely on All 3 Areas to Bill an Office-E/M Code
Counseling, established patients get you an encounter fasterIf you report an office visit ... Read more
You Don't Have to Rely on All 3 Areas to Bill an Office-E/M Code
Counseling, established patients get you an encounter fasterIf you report an office visit ... Read more
Reader Question:
Use HCPCS Codes to Collect for Albuterol
Question: Can we collect reimbursement for drugs such as Albuterol that we use in our fami... Read more
Use HCPCS Codes to Collect for Albuterol
Question: Can we collect reimbursement for drugs such as Albuterol that we use in our fami... Read more
Reader Question:
Insurers Don't Impose Fracture Time Limits
Question: When a patient presents with a fracture, how long after the accident can we bill... Read more
Insurers Don't Impose Fracture Time Limits
Question: When a patient presents with a fracture, how long after the accident can we bill... Read more
Reader Question:
Use V Codes to Represent Transplant Status
Question: A patient presents to our family practice for foot care due to diabetes complica... Read more
Use V Codes to Represent Transplant Status
Question: A patient presents to our family practice for foot care due to diabetes complica... Read more
Reader Question:
Add Debridement Sites Together
Question: A patient came to our practice with infected decubiti on two sites that required... Read more
Add Debridement Sites Together
Question: A patient came to our practice with infected decubiti on two sites that required... Read more
Reader Question:
Don't Expect to Collect for Ear Piercings
Question: Which code should I report when a clinical staff member performs ear piercings?I... Read more
Don't Expect to Collect for Ear Piercings
Question: Which code should I report when a clinical staff member performs ear piercings?I... Read more
Reader Question:
Look to 17000 for Plantar Wart Cryotherapy
Question: Which code should I use for cryotherapy treatment of a common or plantar wart on... Read more
Look to 17000 for Plantar Wart Cryotherapy
Question: Which code should I use for cryotherapy treatment of a common or plantar wart on... Read more
Reader Question:
780.9 Requires Fifth Digit
Question: Which code should we report for subjective memory loss without a confirmed cause... Read more
780.9 Requires Fifth Digit
Question: Which code should we report for subjective memory loss without a confirmed cause... Read more
Reader Question:
Counseling Must Dominate Visit to Use It as E/M Criterion
Question: Our family physician saw a patient today for arthritis. She had been to the prac... Read more
Counseling Must Dominate Visit to Use It as E/M Criterion
Question: Our family physician saw a patient today for arthritis. She had been to the prac... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Find Medication Noncompliance Diagnosis
Question: We performed a nine-panel drug screen on a patient because the family physician ... Read more
Find Medication Noncompliance Diagnosis
Question: We performed a nine-panel drug screen on a patient because the family physician ... Read more
Diabetes Coding:
Don't Let 3 Common Mistakes Rob Your Practice of Rightful Pay
The key? Know when to use 250.xx and 365.44 Are you always using 250.00 to justify your f... Read more
Don't Let 3 Common Mistakes Rob Your Practice of Rightful Pay
The key? Know when to use 250.xx and 365.44 Are you always using 250.00 to justify your f... Read more
Pediatric Coding Corner - Myth Buster:
Using V20.2 for Every Vaccine? You Won't After You Read This
Experts give 4 reasons to assign a specific ICD-9 code for each immunization You may be t... Read more
Using V20.2 for Every Vaccine? You Won't After You Read This
Experts give 4 reasons to assign a specific ICD-9 code for each immunization You may be t... Read more
Score an A+ on Immunization Diagnostic Coding
Clip and save this guide to billing 20 vaccines in 2004 You never have to hunt through ... Read more
Clip and save this guide to billing 20 vaccines in 2004 You never have to hunt through ... Read more
3 Documentation Tips Improve Your Precatheterization E/M Pay
Separate chart notes, diagnoses justify office visit reimbursement You can overturn de... Read more
Separate chart notes, diagnoses justify office visit reimbursement You can overturn de... Read more
Reader Question:
No-Show? No Code
Question: We regularly have patients who don't show up for their appointments and don't ... Read more
No-Show? No Code
Question: We regularly have patients who don't show up for their appointments and don't ... Read more
Reader Question:
Stick Your Neck Out for Correct Choice
Question: Our doctors use the sentence "Neck is supple" all the time in their documentat... Read more
Stick Your Neck Out for Correct Choice
Question: Our doctors use the sentence "Neck is supple" all the time in their documentat... Read more
Reader Question:
Report E/M Code for Ear Wick
Question: Which code should we report for an ear wick? Oklahoma Subscriber Answer: Ear... Read more
Report E/M Code for Ear Wick
Question: Which code should we report for an ear wick? Oklahoma Subscriber Answer: Ear... Read more
Reader Question:
John Hancock Alone Might Not Cut It for EKGs
Question: Our doctors are under the impression that since our electrocardiogram (EKG) ma... Read more
John Hancock Alone Might Not Cut It for EKGs
Question: Our doctors are under the impression that since our electrocardiogram (EKG) ma... Read more
Reader Question:
X-Ray Interpretation Only? Add -26
Question: How should we report a scenario in which the physician did not take x-rays but... Read more
X-Ray Interpretation Only? Add -26
Question: How should we report a scenario in which the physician did not take x-rays but... Read more
Reader Question:
Do You Have a Substitute FP? Use Modifier -Q6
Question: When each of our family physicians takes two weeks of vacation, another FP in ... Read more
Do You Have a Substitute FP? Use Modifier -Q6
Question: When each of our family physicians takes two weeks of vacation, another FP in ... Read more
Reader Question:
Worried Well Works With Prevacation Check
Question: A mother presents to make sure her child's ears are clear prior to flying. Alt... Read more
Worried Well Works With Prevacation Check
Question: A mother presents to make sure her child's ears are clear prior to flying. Alt... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Swallow the Cost of Tylenol
Question: Is there a HCPCS code for the supply of Tylenol for a sick patient? Texas Su... Read more
Swallow the Cost of Tylenol
Question: Is there a HCPCS code for the supply of Tylenol for a sick patient? Texas Su... Read more
1 Tool You Need Before Coding a Skin Lesion Excision
" CPT, ICD-9 force you to withhold suspicious-lesion claims Don't be tempte... Read more
" CPT, ICD-9 force you to withhold suspicious-lesion claims Don't be tempte... Read more
Inconclusive Path Report?:
Uncertain,Unspecified Diagnosis Codes May Help You
Even though uncertain and unspecified diagnoses don't apply to suspicious lesions, you sho... Read more
Uncertain,Unspecified Diagnosis Codes May Help You
Even though uncertain and unspecified diagnoses don't apply to suspicious lesions, you sho... Read more
NCCI 10.2 Adds New Bundles of Joy to Maternity Care Codes
The National Correct Coding Initiative, version 10.2, goes into effect on July 1, and whil... Read more
The National Correct Coding Initiative, version 10.2, goes into effect on July 1, and whil... Read more
Get the NCCI 10.2 Rundown Here
Integrate these new FP bundles July 1 Forget fumbling through pages of edits on the CMS W... Read more
Integrate these new FP bundles July 1 Forget fumbling through pages of edits on the CMS W... Read more
Pediatric Coding Corner:
3 Documentation Tips Improve Your Precath-E/M Pay
Separate chart notes and diagnoses justify office visit reimbursement You can overturn... Read more
3 Documentation Tips Improve Your Precath-E/M Pay
Separate chart notes and diagnoses justify office visit reimbursement You can overturn... Read more
ICD-9 2005 Preview:
New V Code Makes Billing Chickenpox Exposure a Snap
Our clip-and-post chart reveals upcoming family practice diagnostic changes Does your pra... Read more
New V Code Makes Billing Chickenpox Exposure a Snap
Our clip-and-post chart reveals upcoming family practice diagnostic changes Does your pra... Read more
4 Steps Reduce Denials for Teaching Physician Services
Techniques can clarify confusing Medicare guidelines When a physician works as a "teachin... Read more
Techniques can clarify confusing Medicare guidelines When a physician works as a "teachin... Read more
You Be the Expert:
TP Rules and Med Students
Question: I've heard about the new teaching physician (TP) guidelines and was wondering ... Read more
TP Rules and Med Students
Question: I've heard about the new teaching physician (TP) guidelines and was wondering ... Read more
Reader Question:
Go Beyond CPT for Dystrophic Nail Trimming Code
Question: A family physician's documentation reads, "Trimmed dystrophic nails.&... Read more
Go Beyond CPT for Dystrophic Nail Trimming Code
Question: A family physician's documentation reads, "Trimmed dystrophic nails.&... Read more
Reader Question:
Combine Same-Day E/Ms Into 1
Question: A family physician treats in our office a patient who has difficulty breathing... Read more
Combine Same-Day E/Ms Into 1
Question: A family physician treats in our office a patient who has difficulty breathing... Read more
Reader Question:
FP's Opinion Counts When Coding ECG's I&R
Question: What should my family physician document to claim electrocardiogram (ECG) inte... Read more
FP's Opinion Counts When Coding ECG's I&R
Question: What should my family physician document to claim electrocardiogram (ECG) inte... Read more
Reader Question:
Time-Based Billing Is Key to Counseling Coding
Question: During the annual physical of a 19-year-old established patient, the family ph... Read more
Time-Based Billing Is Key to Counseling Coding
Question: During the annual physical of a 19-year-old established patient, the family ph... Read more
Reader Question:
Do You Know Medicare's New CBC Codes?
Question: An office staff member draws a Medicare patient's blood and performs a complet... Read more
Do You Know Medicare's New CBC Codes?
Question: An office staff member draws a Medicare patient's blood and performs a complet... Read more
Reader Question:
Know the Meaning of 'Immediately Available'
Question: If the doctor has to leave the room for a few minutes during a procedure perfo... Read more
Know the Meaning of 'Immediately Available'
Question: If the doctor has to leave the room for a few minutes during a procedure perfo... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Test Your New Patient Component Savvy
Question: A 22-year-old female who is new to our practice presents with irregular menses... Read more
Test Your New Patient Component Savvy
Question: A 22-year-old female who is new to our practice presents with irregular menses... Read more
3 Tips Add Almost $50 to Your Trigger Point
Get the lowdown on when you should bill E/M, anesthetic or multiple injections with 2055... Read more
Get the lowdown on when you should bill E/M, anesthetic or multiple injections with 2055... Read more
Can You Find This TPI Scenario's Hidden $$$?
Test your 20552-20553 inclusion knowledge If you think your TPI claims capture every ce... Read more
Test your 20552-20553 inclusion knowledge If you think your TPI claims capture every ce... Read more
PEDIATRIC CODING CORNER:
3 Scenarios Show You How to Code Developmental Testing
Hint: Modifier -25 unlocks your E/M-96110 pay If your family physician (FP) performs de... Read more
3 Scenarios Show You How to Code Developmental Testing
Hint: Modifier -25 unlocks your E/M-96110 pay If your family physician (FP) performs de... Read more
Easy Way to Check Your Patient's 96110 Eligibility
Clip and post your separately identifiable developmental screenings guide If you aren't... Read more
Clip and post your separately identifiable developmental screenings guide If you aren't... Read more
Reader Question:
How to Code Senior Citizen's Well Exams
Question: Which CPT and ICD-9 code should I use for a Medicare patient's annual physical c... Read more
How to Code Senior Citizen's Well Exams
Question: Which CPT and ICD-9 code should I use for a Medicare patient's annual physical c... Read more
Reader Question:
Radiology Evaluation Boosts Your E/M Points
Question: If my family physician orders an x-ray and provides personal, independent visual... Read more
Radiology Evaluation Boosts Your E/M Points
Question: If my family physician orders an x-ray and provides personal, independent visual... Read more
Reader Question:
Code 99373 Captures Complex Counseling Call
Question: A suicidal patient whom our staff is treating for depression calls our family ph... Read more
Code 99373 Captures Complex Counseling Call
Question: A suicidal patient whom our staff is treating for depression calls our family ph... Read more
Reader Question:
You May Charge Entire Partial-Use Demerol Vial
Question: When a nurse administers 50 mg of Demerol from a multi-dose vial, what unit and ... Read more
You May Charge Entire Partial-Use Demerol Vial
Question: When a nurse administers 50 mg of Demerol from a multi-dose vial, what unit and ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Medicare Covers RHC Telehealth Consultations
Question: We heard that CMS introduced a new code for physician-to-patient Internet consul... Read more
Medicare Covers RHC Telehealth Consultations
Question: We heard that CMS introduced a new code for physician-to-patient Internet consul... Read more
Reader Question:
ABPM Coverage Hinges on Hypertension Type
Question: Aetna considers 24-hour blood pressure (BP) monitoring experimental and/or inves... Read more
ABPM Coverage Hinges on Hypertension Type
Question: Aetna considers 24-hour blood pressure (BP) monitoring experimental and/or inves... Read more
Reader Question:
Go Online for Free Quarterly NCCI Edits
Question: How can I find out whether Medicare bundles two services, such as an established... Read more
Go Online for Free Quarterly NCCI Edits
Question: How can I find out whether Medicare bundles two services, such as an established... Read more
Reader Question:
Code a WC Case as a Sick Visit
Question: Should I use work-related code 99455 each time my family physician sees a worker... Read more
Code a WC Case as a Sick Visit
Question: Should I use work-related code 99455 each time my family physician sees a worker... Read more
You Be The Coder:
Should You Code In-Office Suppository Insertion?
Question: A patient presents with encopresis, or severe constipation. The family physician... Read more
Should You Code In-Office Suppository Insertion?
Question: A patient presents with encopresis, or severe constipation. The family physician... Read more
Prepare for Allergy Season With a Diagnostic Checkup
Yellow codes won't cost you $52 You can avoid claim rejections for improper asthma coding... Read more
Yellow codes won't cost you $52 You can avoid claim rejections for improper asthma coding... Read more
Patient's Status Will Get You the Right ICD-9 Code
Clip and post your guide to asthma's changing fifth digit You don't have to struggle deci... Read more
Clip and post your guide to asthma's changing fifth digit You don't have to struggle deci... Read more
Answers to Your 2 Frequently Asked Incident-To Questions
Charging $21 for 99211 hinges on employee, facility For a blood pressure check, you shou... Read more
Charging $21 for 99211 hinges on employee, facility For a blood pressure check, you shou... Read more
Pediatric Coding Corner:
3 Ways You Can Avoid Losing $15 on Sports, Camp Physicals
Plan your coding, payment policy attack now You can boost reimbursement for spring and su... Read more
3 Ways You Can Avoid Losing $15 on Sports, Camp Physicals
Plan your coding, payment policy attack now You can boost reimbursement for spring and su... Read more
Correction:
Double-Check Your Lesion Anatomy Codes
If you don't make sure that your malignant lesion removal codes correspond with the right ... Read more
Double-Check Your Lesion Anatomy Codes
If you don't make sure that your malignant lesion removal codes correspond with the right ... Read more
Reader Question:
Carriers Determine 11200-11201 Coverage
Question: When I file a skin tag removal claim with diagnosis code 701.9, why does Medicar... Read more
Carriers Determine 11200-11201 Coverage
Question: When I file a skin tag removal claim with diagnosis code 701.9, why does Medicar... Read more
Reader Question:
How to Code Pain-Reduction Services
Question: A 9-year-old diabetes patient refuses injections because of pain. Our diabetes n... Read more
How to Code Pain-Reduction Services
Question: A 9-year-old diabetes patient refuses injections because of pain. Our diabetes n... Read more
Reader Question:
2 HH-Services Criteria Your Carrier May Impose
Question: What type of documentation does Medicare require from the family physician in ad... Read more
2 HH-Services Criteria Your Carrier May Impose
Question: What type of documentation does Medicare require from the family physician in ad... Read more
Reader Question:
Don't Subject Your Radiology Codes to Modifier -50
Question: My family physician (FP) takes an in-office bilateral knee x-ray. Should I repor... Read more
Don't Subject Your Radiology Codes to Modifier -50
Question: My family physician (FP) takes an in-office bilateral knee x-ray. Should I repor... Read more
Reader Question:
Your Denial Prediction Influences Coding
Question: For what codes or procedures should I use the "Medicare Noncovered Services Rele... Read more
Your Denial Prediction Influences Coding
Question: For what codes or procedures should I use the "Medicare Noncovered Services Rele... Read more
You Be The Coder:
FP Replaces Damaged Cast
Question: A 12-year-old boy who gets in frequent fights smacked his short arm cast so much... Read more
FP Replaces Damaged Cast
Question: A 12-year-old boy who gets in frequent fights smacked his short arm cast so much... Read more
3 Foolproof Ways You Can Tell 92551 From 92552
Get an additional $18 for a threshold exam You can stop unfamiliar audiometry terms f... Read more
Get an additional $18 for a threshold exam You can stop unfamiliar audiometry terms f... Read more
Decibels, Hertz:
Here's How to Keep Audiometry Terms Straight
A vocabulary key clues you in to 92551, 92552's lingoYou can decipher a screening from a t... Read more
Here's How to Keep Audiometry Terms Straight
A vocabulary key clues you in to 92551, 92552's lingoYou can decipher a screening from a t... Read more
Pediatric Coding Corner:
Add $65 to Your Circumcision Claims
4 tools improve your nerve block payWith conflicting information about whether 64450 (Inje... Read more
Add $65 to Your Circumcision Claims
4 tools improve your nerve block payWith conflicting information about whether 64450 (Inje... Read more
More on Impacted Cerumen Coding, CPT and CDR
The article "Do You Need Instrumentation to Report 69210?" in the April Family Practice Co... Read more
The article "Do You Need Instrumentation to Report 69210?" in the April Family Practice Co... Read more
Get ABNs, or Risk Picking Up Patient Tabs
Without ABNs, unpaid Medicare bills may become your problemIf you aren't obtaining advance... Read more
Without ABNs, unpaid Medicare bills may become your problemIf you aren't obtaining advance... Read more
ABNs:
What to Change, What to Leave Alone
Got an itch to make a switch on an ABN? Proceed with cautionWhen it comes to manipulation ... Read more
What to Change, What to Leave Alone
Got an itch to make a switch on an ABN? Proceed with cautionWhen it comes to manipulation ... Read more
You Be The Expert ABNs and Uncovered Medicare Services
Question: Our office obtains advance beneficiary notices each time there is some doubt abo... Read more
Question: Our office obtains advance beneficiary notices each time there is some doubt abo... Read more
Reader Questions:
Don't Accept Consultation Frequency Limitations
Question: Does a time limit exist on how long must pass before I can bill 99241-99245 on t... Read more
Don't Accept Consultation Frequency Limitations
Question: Does a time limit exist on how long must pass before I can bill 99241-99245 on t... Read more
Reader Question:
Find Out What Separates G0103 From 84153
Question: Are 84153 and G0103 interchangeable for PSA (prostate specific antigen) screenin... Read more
Find Out What Separates G0103 From 84153
Question: Are 84153 and G0103 interchangeable for PSA (prostate specific antigen) screenin... Read more
Reader Question:
1 Supply Adjustment You Should Make
Question: A J-code injection's description specifies 100 mg. Our office administers 50 mg ... Read more
1 Supply Adjustment You Should Make
Question: A J-code injection's description specifies 100 mg. Our office administers 50 mg ... Read more
Reader Question:
How You Can Recoup Nasal-Swab-Related Activities
Question: My family physician performed a nasal swab for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)... Read more
How You Can Recoup Nasal-Swab-Related Activities
Question: My family physician performed a nasal swab for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)... Read more
Reader Question:
Never Billed Patient a CPT Code? Treat Him as New
Question: A case manager meets with our obstetric patients before they see the family... Read more
Never Billed Patient a CPT Code? Treat Him as New
Question: A case manager meets with our obstetric patients before they see the family... Read more
Reader Question:
Follow the CMS Definition of 'Deliver'
Question: Since the purpose of an ABN is to inform the patient about a service, our office... Read more
Follow the CMS Definition of 'Deliver'
Question: Since the purpose of an ABN is to inform the patient about a service, our office... Read more
You Be The Coder - Nursing Facility Care or Assessment:
You Decide
Question: A family physician performs a history, evaluation and medical decision-making on... Read more
You Decide
Question: A family physician performs a history, evaluation and medical decision-making on... Read more
3 Steps Ensure Flawless Biopsy and Excision Coding
Amount,depth and intent determine your code choice You'll never lose excision dollars ... Read more
Amount,depth and intent determine your code choice You'll never lose excision dollars ... Read more
Real World Coding:
You Decide the Lesion Procedure
Hint: Look for complete versus partial removal Test your biopsy and excision skills with ... Read more
You Decide the Lesion Procedure
Hint: Look for complete versus partial removal Test your biopsy and excision skills with ... Read more
Do You Need Instrumentation to Report 69210?
Experts reveal what wax removal coding really entailsIf conflicting information on 69210's... Read more
Experts reveal what wax removal coding really entailsIf conflicting information on 69210's... Read more
Meet These 3 Criteria for Coding Nonphysician Cerumen Removal
You can get paid for nurse-performed 69210 Are your billing 69210 impose additional res... Read more
You can get paid for nurse-performed 69210 Are your billing 69210 impose additional res... Read more
Pediatric Coding Corner:
Experts Answer Your FAQs on Rocephin With Lidocaine Billing
Get the inside scoop on J2000 deletion Have your lidocaine code searches turned up frui... Read more
Experts Answer Your FAQs on Rocephin With Lidocaine Billing
Get the inside scoop on J2000 deletion Have your lidocaine code searches turned up frui... Read more
Reader Question:
Bill 82270 on FOBT Return Date
Question: After performing a digital rectal exam (DRE), a family physician sent a package ... Read more
Bill 82270 on FOBT Return Date
Question: After performing a digital rectal exam (DRE), a family physician sent a package ... Read more
Reader Question:
Use G Codes for Certification Services
Question: After reviewing a home-bound Medicare patient's status, my family physician (FP)... Read more
Use G Codes for Certification Services
Question: After reviewing a home-bound Medicare patient's status, my family physician (FP)... Read more
Reader Question:
Update Your 2004 Central Venous Catheter Codes
Question: According to my coding guideline book, Medicare will pay 36489 separately, but t... Read more
Update Your 2004 Central Venous Catheter Codes
Question: According to my coding guideline book, Medicare will pay 36489 separately, but t... Read more
Reader Question:
Policies, Not Specialty, Determine 90862 Use
Question: May a family physician bill for 90862?Pennsylvania Subscriber Answer: Yes, any ... Read more
Policies, Not Specialty, Determine 90862 Use
Question: May a family physician bill for 90862?Pennsylvania Subscriber Answer: Yes, any ... Read more
Reader Question:
Dead Patient May Not Warrant Discharge Code
Question: My family physician sees a patient in the hospital, pronounces him dead, and dic... Read more
Dead Patient May Not Warrant Discharge Code
Question: My family physician sees a patient in the hospital, pronounces him dead, and dic... Read more
Reader Question:
Consider Family Consult a Patient Service
Question: A patient comes in to discuss the care of his wife, who is also a patient and re... Read more
Consider Family Consult a Patient Service
Question: A patient comes in to discuss the care of his wife, who is also a patient and re... Read more
You Be The Coder:
FP Applies Finger Splint Without Fracture Care
Question: A preschool child catches his finger in a car door. My family physician (FP) exa... Read more
FP Applies Finger Splint Without Fracture Care
Question: A preschool child catches his finger in a car door. My family physician (FP) exa... Read more
5 Steps Guide Your Practice's MNT Coding
Private-payers' rules vary from Medicare's Is your family practice providing medical nut... Read more
Private-payers' rules vary from Medicare's Is your family practice providing medical nut... Read more
Does That Service Warrant
Learn 99211's 3-fold requirements You can bill a nurse visit with confidence as long as y... Read more
Learn 99211's 3-fold requirements You can bill a nurse visit with confidence as long as y... Read more
Test Your 99211 Knowledge
Find out what will turn a nonreportable service into a nurse visit If you're unclear on h... Read more
Find out what will turn a nonreportable service into a nurse visit If you're unclear on h... Read more
Pediatric Coding Corner - NCCI Edits:
Global Critical Care Includes Outpatient, Inpatient Services
The latest National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) edits confirm a coding guidelin... Read more
Global Critical Care Includes Outpatient, Inpatient Services
The latest National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) edits confirm a coding guidelin... Read more
Reader Question:
Possible Head Trauma Warrants Separate Coding
Question: When my family physician performs a neurological examination on a patient who re... Read more
Possible Head Trauma Warrants Separate Coding
Question: When my family physician performs a neurological examination on a patient who re... Read more
Reader Question:
Challenge Private-Payer Pulse Ox Bundling
Question: What can I do about payers bundling pulse oximetry with office visits? I often p... Read more
Challenge Private-Payer Pulse Ox Bundling
Question: What can I do about payers bundling pulse oximetry with office visits? I often p... Read more
Reader Question:
Check Carrier Policy for Nail Coverage
Question: A Medicare patient presents with a painful ingrown toenail. The FP trims the nai... Read more
Check Carrier Policy for Nail Coverage
Question: A Medicare patient presents with a painful ingrown toenail. The FP trims the nai... Read more
Reader Question:
Extract Provision Drives 95115 to 95120
Question: When a patient who requires immuno-therapy brings in serum for his biweekly alle... Read more
Extract Provision Drives 95115 to 95120
Question: When a patient who requires immuno-therapy brings in serum for his biweekly alle... Read more
Reader Question:
Age 18 Is V20.2 Cut-off
Question: What is the age limit on V20.2?Idaho Subscriber Answer: ICD-9 designates V20.2 ... Read more
Age 18 Is V20.2 Cut-off
Question: What is the age limit on V20.2?Idaho Subscriber Answer: ICD-9 designates V20.2 ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Injury Leads to Injection, Bandage
Question: A patient presents with an amputated finger from a work-related accident. At a w... Read more
Injury Leads to Injection, Bandage
Question: A patient presents with an amputated finger from a work-related accident. At a w... Read more
5 Answers You Need for ICD-9 Burn Codes
Our self-quiz will get you the right 941-947, 948, E combination When family practitio... Read more
Our self-quiz will get you the right 941-947, 948, E combination When family practitio... Read more
Pediatric Coding Corner:
Get Private-Payer Payment for Preschool Screening Test
4 tips add 99173 dollars to your bottom line You can avoid forfeiting reimbursement for a... Read more
Get Private-Payer Payment for Preschool Screening Test
4 tips add 99173 dollars to your bottom line You can avoid forfeiting reimbursement for a... Read more
4 Scenarios Help You Untangle Admissions From Office Visits
Get the pay you deserve for 2-day services How can you earn your fair share of reimb... Read more
Get the pay you deserve for 2-day services How can you earn your fair share of reimb... Read more
Here's How to Code Outpatient-to-Inpatient Encounters
Clip and save your combination E/M service chart If you're not sure what to report for ho... Read more
Clip and save your combination E/M service chart If you're not sure what to report for ho... Read more
Restructure Appeals With These 6 Steps
Get organized for easier, more productive appeals When your practice receives a denial... Read more
Get organized for easier, more productive appeals When your practice receives a denial... Read more
Read EOBs Before Responding to Denials
What 'noncovered service' really means to your office You can't streamline... Read more
What 'noncovered service' really means to your office You can't streamline... Read more
You Be the Expert:
What Makes a Clean Claim?
Question: We are having problems in our family practice with the number of claims ... Read more
What Makes a Clean Claim?
Question: We are having problems in our family practice with the number of claims ... Read more
Reader Question:
Sort Out E/M With Vaccination
Question: When a patient comes in only to get a flu shot, should I also report an office v... Read more
Sort Out E/M With Vaccination
Question: When a patient comes in only to get a flu shot, should I also report an office v... Read more
Reader Question:
Code 99080: Consider Contracts, Payer, CPT
Question: I have tried using special reports 99080 for a Regence Blue Shield report and ... Read more
Code 99080: Consider Contracts, Payer, CPT
Question: I have tried using special reports 99080 for a Regence Blue Shield report and ... Read more
Reader Question:
Consultation Criteria Are Key
Question: I work in a large family practice group (single specialty). Because I am a famil... Read more
Consultation Criteria Are Key
Question: I work in a large family practice group (single specialty). Because I am a famil... Read more
Reader Question:
Report Symptoms for Unconfirmed ADD
Question: A mother brings in her son because he is having problems concentrating in class.... Read more
Report Symptoms for Unconfirmed ADD
Question: A mother brings in her son because he is having problems concentrating in class.... Read more
Reader Question:
Complexity Drives 99371-99373 Coding
Question: To code a very involved phone call, may I append modifier -22 to 99371? For inst... Read more
Complexity Drives 99371-99373 Coding
Question: To code a very involved phone call, may I append modifier -22 to 99371? For inst... Read more
Reader Question:
Bridge the Communication Gap ASAP
Question: The physicians and billers in my office don't practice open communication, and i... Read more
Bridge the Communication Gap ASAP
Question: The physicians and billers in my office don't practice open communication, and i... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Coding a Colposcopy With an Exam
Question: My family physician sees a new patient for a colposcopy (such as 57452). Do I ne... Read more
Coding a Colposcopy With an Exam
Question: My family physician sees a new patient for a colposcopy (such as 57452). Do I ne... Read more
Get Ready for 3 Changes That Will Ease Your Surgery Coding
Stars deletion tops CPT 2004's simplification push If you were thinking the new CPT... Read more
Stars deletion tops CPT 2004's simplification push If you were thinking the new CPT... Read more
Lab, Medicine Revisions Dispel Confusion, Outdated Terms
CPT 2004 answers your miscellaneous code concerns Were you uncertain as to when you... Read more
CPT 2004 answers your miscellaneous code concerns Were you uncertain as to when you... Read more
CPT 2004 Revamps Critical Care Notes
Experts reveal how 3 revised instructions will simplify your 99289-99296 options If criti... Read more
Experts reveal how 3 revised instructions will simplify your 99289-99296 options If criti... Read more
A Chart Shows You How to Bill 99289-99296 Correctly
Choose critical care code based on location, not age Not sure which code to use when your... Read more
Choose critical care code based on location, not age Not sure which code to use when your... Read more
Pediatric Coding Corner:
10-Point Checklist Will Get You Paid for IM Flu Shots
Follow these do's and don'ts when you report two Fluzone products If you aren't sure how ... Read more
10-Point Checklist Will Get You Paid for IM Flu Shots
Follow these do's and don'ts when you report two Fluzone products If you aren't sure how ... Read more
Reader Question:
Track E/M Components With New Category II Codes
Question: I heard that there's a new code section coming in CPT 2004. What is it and... Read more
Track E/M Components With New Category II Codes
Question: I heard that there's a new code section coming in CPT 2004. What is it and... Read more
Reader Question:
86580 Is for TB Test, Not Vaccine
Question: The December 2003 Family Practice Coding Alert states that you shouldn't bill fo... Read more
86580 Is for TB Test, Not Vaccine
Question: The December 2003 Family Practice Coding Alert states that you shouldn't bill fo... Read more
Reader Question:
Try 99058 for Third-Party Emergency Care
Question: Our family practice sees patients by appointment only. Occasionally, we have an ... Read more
Try 99058 for Third-Party Emergency Care
Question: Our family practice sees patients by appointment only. Occasionally, we have an ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Don't Let V04.81 Denials Spook You
Question: After I used V04.81 for a flu-shot diagnosis, Medicare denied all the claims bas... Read more
Don't Let V04.81 Denials Spook You
Question: After I used V04.81 for a flu-shot diagnosis, Medicare denied all the claims bas... Read more