Q: I have a patient with stage IV lung cancer that presented with fatigue, cough, and loss of appetite. Initially, they thought he had pulmonary nodular amyloidosis, but when they did an echocardiogram on day one they found a pericardial effusion. How would this be sequenced and coded?
CMS’ April I/OCE update includes numerous code and status indicator changes, as well as corrections to its January release. Kimberly Anderwood Hoy Baker, JD, CPC, looks at the changes providers should review to ensure claims including these codes are processed correctly.
Coders can choose from a variety of anatomic modifiers to report procedures performed on specific toes. Review how to properly apply these modifiers and which codes they cannot be reported with.
CMS recently released its seventh maintenance update for National Coverage Determinations to incorporate ICD-10 and other coding updates, which may require providers to contact Medicare Administrative Contractors regarding previously submitted claims.
Q: Are there any new HCPCS codes for recently released biosimilar products on the horizon? Our physicians and pharmacists are being contacted by the manufacturer about purchasing and using them, but we want to be sure we can report them appropriately.
Obesity is a condition that can complicate coding for other diagnoses in a patient’s record. Lori-Lynne A. Webb, CPC, CCS-P, CCP, CHDA, COBGC, CDIP, writes about how to report BMI and what must be documented in order to link it with other conditions.
The FY 2017 IPPS proposed rule addresses MS-DRG classifications and relative weights pertaining to the categories of other cardiothoracic procedures without MCC, and injuries, poisonings and toxic effects of drugs.
The American Health Information Management Association has officially responded to proposed ICD-10-CM/PCS codes that were presented at the ICD-10 Coordination and Maintenance Committee meeting held in March by CMS.