E/M services are some of the most frequently used CPT codes, and they are also some of the most frequent examples of incorrect coding. One of the problem areas in selecting the proper E/M code is distinguishing between new and established patients. Note: To access this free article, make sure you first register here if you do not have a paid subscription.
Q: Is CPT code 96416 (chemotherapy administration requiring use of portable pump) the same as HCPCS code G0498 (initiation of infusion of chemotherapy in office using portable pump)? Our facility is trying to determine if it would be appropriate to set up G0498 as a Medicare override for 96416.
The 2018 OPPS and Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposed rules usually make their debuts around the Fourth of July, but despite a later release this year, there were plenty of fireworks within each rule that should generate provider feedback during the comment periods.
With the increased focus on clinical documentation improvement in the outpatient arena, Lori-Lynne A. Webb, CPC, CCS-P, CCP, CHDA, CDIP, COBGC, shares her tips for proving medical necessity on claims.
July is National Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month. Yvette DeVay, MHA, CPC, CIC, CPC-I, explains the differences between the many different types of juvenile arthritis in order to help coders report the disease correctly.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is encouraging providers to decrease the number of cesarean section deliveries. According to Lori-Lynne A. Webb, CPC, CCS-P, CCP, COBGC, CHDA, this means coders should brush up on their knowledge of how to code fetal intervention procedures for babies who are in a breech position.
Q: For a ureteroscopy intended as a procedure with a biopsy and double-J stent, if the procedure ends when only the scope was placed before a biopsy was taken, could you just code ureteroscopy instead of coding it with the biopsy and the modifier-74 (discontinued outpatient hospital/ambulatory surgery center procedure after administration of anesthesia)?
In ICD-10-CM, defining, diagnosing, and documenting the various forms of altered mental status and their underlying causes remains an ongoing challenge for physicians and their facilities, according to James S. Kennedy, MD, CCS, CDIP .
The Quality Payment Program proposed rule seems to bring relief to providers anticipating escalation of Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) requirements, but there are a plethora of reasons for coding professionals to start adapting their workflow for MACRA now. Note: To access this free article, make sure you first register here if you do not have a paid subscription.
