Wiki Question of liability

[Britte]

I work for four independent physicians. Phys #1 has me code from notes and enter charges and dx codes into EMR based on their completed office note which is on paper. Phys #2 and #3 complete their paper office note and determine their own E/M level and dx codes but give to me simply to enter into EMR for billing purposes. Physical #4 enters his own E/M level and dx codes in the EMR after completing his office notes, but I still have to check it to make sure all charges for testings were entered on it and then release it to be billed.
Here's my question. I understand my full liability under my licensing for Phys #1, but I don't know or understand my responsibility or liability when it comes to the other physicians. I am a certified coder, but I am not coding for them. However, since the EMR system shows these claims entered and released through me am I held responsible for their coding? I just want to understand and know if anyone else has been in similar positions.

 

[diaznp]

I hope someone can give a more thorough response.

I was also in a similar situation. I found some issues with the ones where they just wanted me to enter info. I finally told my supervisor I was not comfortable just 'entering' info from the physician because in an audit trail - it WOULD have "my" name attached. I was fortunate that my supervisor agreed with me and I did not have to continue doing that physician's charts.

Good luck!

 

[Lukelie]

At the end of the day, the physician's signature is on the claim and they are ultimately responsible for their claims. If providers are blatantly using a higher level of service than what is documented/reasonable and medically necessary, then you may have a bigger issue on your hands.