Prior Authorization for Spinal Neurostimulator Implantations: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) implemented a prior authorization requirement for spinal neurostimulator implantations surgeries on July 1, 2021. This policy change took effect after the Office of Inspector General (OIG) had concluded its field work but before the release of its investigation report. CMS specifically […]
The healthcare industry has long been burdened with paperwork, from patient intake forms to insurance documentation. While many healthcare providers have already adopted Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), there’s a growing realization that going paperless can extend far beyond just digitizing patient records. One significant area where healthcare can continue to evolve is through the use […]
Medicare coverage is the federal health insurance program for Americans 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with long-term disabilities. It covers a wide range of medical services, including hospitalizations, doctor’s visits, prescription drugs, and specialized care like skilled nursing, home health, hospice, and preventive services There are two primary ways to receive Medicare […]
During the Healthcare debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, healthcare—especially the Affordable Care Act (ACA)—became a central focus in the final stages of the discussion. Moderated by journalists Linsey Davis and David Muir, the Healthcare debate showcased starkly different perspectives on the future of the ACA. Trump’s Unclear Healthcare Plan: […]
Unlocking the Power of AI: Essential Features for Medical Coding and CDI Tools: When choosing an AI tool to improve medical coding or clinical documentation integrity (CDI), healthcare organizations navigate a complex landscape of emerging technologies. To ensure the right selection, focus on key features that enhance accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. One crucial aspect is […]
The prior authorization burdens associated with the process have long been a source of frustration for healthcare providers and patients. These burdens can impede optimal care by creating delays in treatment and increasing administrative tasks. However, recent legislative changes and insurer policies aim to alleviate these concerns and streamline the prior authorization process. A radiation […]
Using surgery modifiers to accurately represent the role of assistant surgeons has become increasingly important over the past three decades. Initially, a simple mention of the assistant surgeon’s name in the operative note header sufficed. However, as the healthcare landscape evolved, payers began demanding more granular details about the assistant surgeon’s role and contributions to […]
The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have proposed new 2025 Medicare payment policies for hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) that aim to increase access to care and advance health equity. These policies are outlined in the 2025 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System […]
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced plans to continue allowing certain telehealth flexibilities beyond the end of 2024. These changes are part of their proposed rules for Medicare payments in 2025. While most temporary telehealth rules from the COVID-19 pandemic are set to expire, CMS wants to keep some in place. […]
Medicare Advantage (MA) has become a dominant force in the Medicare landscape, accounting for over 54% of overall Medicare enrollment. This trend is expected to continue, with penetration rates projected to reach 64% by 2033. However, the future of the Medicare Advantage market is not without its challenges. The Slowdown Begins While MA has experienced […]