Q: When coding and trying to sequence a diagnosis such as pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, I understand that there is a “use after” mandate, but how are coders to know which codes the “use additional code” note is providing sequencing advice for?
On October 31, CMS announced that it awarded contracts to the next round of Medicare fee-for-service Recovery Auditors. The base period for contracts is 12 months from the date the contract is awarded, said CMS.
MS-DRG audits are nothing new, but their frequency has significantly increased over the last two years. In this article, Sam Antonios, MD, FACP, FHM, CPE, CCDS , gives facilities tips to increase the likelihood of overturning MS-DRG denials.
Adrienne Commeree, CPC, CPMA, CCS, CEMC, CPIP , reviews changes that were made in the 2017 ICD-10-PCS Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting to arteries and stents. Note: To access this free article, make sure you first register for the free content if you do not have a paid subscription.
Lori-Lynne A. Webb, CPC, CCS-P, CCP, CHDA, COBGC, CDIP, continues her look at 2017 diagnosis code changes for genitourinary conditions by focusing tips for reporting urinary and male genitourinary diagnoses.
Providers need to make sure that electronic order templates include all the necessary information to bill correctly and avoid issues during audits. Valerie A. Rinkle, MPA, writes about what must be contained in the order and ICD-10-specific updates providers should consider.
CMS released the 2017 OPPS final rule November 1, implementing site-neutral payment policies required by Section 603 of the Bipartisan Budget Act, adding new comprehensive APCs, and refining several packaging policies.
Providers frequently need to treat fractures in the ED, so coders need to be aware of the types of fractures and how to report them using CPT codes. Review types of fractures, treatment, and coding tips for reporting fractures in the ED.
Q: If a patient is extubated post-operatively, but continues to be treated with supplemental oxygen, when is a query for acute respiratory failure appropriate?
