The 2016 CPT® code update may have been relatively small compared to previous years, but the urinary and genital system sections did receive numerous changes to align them with other sections of the code book.
This month's column is all about data--the importance of providers reporting accurate and complete data, as well as CMS having complete, accurate, and consistent data to compute future payment rates.
Remember, the hierarchy applies to all IV injection and infusion services. Chemotherapy services are primary and should be selected as initial when provided in conjunction with therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic services.
The switch to ICD-10-CM won't bring many changes in the codes for reporting genital prolapse, but understanding the nuances of the diagnoses is key for choosing the correct code. Lori-Lynne A. Webb, CPC, CCS-P, CCP, CHDA, CDIP, COBGC, highlights terms to look for in documentation and provides a sample operative report to test your knowledge.
ICD-10-CM root operations excision and resection are sometimes hard to differentiate. ICD-10-PCS defines excision (B) as cutting out or off, without replacement, a portion of a body part. Resection (T) is almost identical, but involves cutting out or off the entire body part.
Blood tests are a common diagnostic tool for providers trying to determine a patient's condition. Shelley C. Safian, PhD, CCS-P, CPC-H, CPC-I, reviews the components of blood, detailing key terms and conditions coders should know to prepare for ICD-10-CM.
Coders and clinicians seem to speak different languages. CDI specialists often serve as the translators between clinicians and coders, so it's important that all three groups work together.
ICD-10 implementation requires organizational coordination from a variety of departments. Chloe Phillips, MHA, RHIA, and Kayce Dover, MSHI, RHIA, discuss how organizations can overcome challenges regarding staffing, productivity, and data analytics as they prepare for the change.
CMS made incorrect payments to hospitals for established patient clinic visits estimated at approximately $4.6 million in 2012, according to a recent Office of Inspector General (OIG) audit.
