Remaining up-to-date is essential in the healthcare industry, but relying solely on current codes isn’t always the best approach. When auditing, handling appeals, or researching code usage for past encounters, a solid grasp of the descriptors and guidelines applicable during the date of service (DOS) can profoundly impact outcomes. Here’s a concise guide on effectively […]
The administrative burden of accurate coding is a major contributor to physician burnout, a problem even worse since the COVID pandemic. Studies consistently show it’s a leading cause of stress for doctors and staff. Incorrect coding, including medical coding mistakes, can have serious financial consequences for medical practices. Denial of claims, reduced reimbursements, and audits […]
In medical coding, CPT modifier are vital for accurate reimbursement of healthcare services. These special codes, attached to primary procedure codes, provide additional details about the complexity or extent of a service. However, using modifiers incorrectly can lead to claim denials and lost revenue. This blog post shares six key tips to help you get […]
The 1995 and 1997 Documentation Guidelines and the 2023 CPT® E/M Services Guidelines are not drastically different when compared side by side. Some hospitals and coding and billing entities may believe that the new 2023 CPT® evaluation and management (E/M) services guidelines and code changes simplify the coding, billing, and auditing processes. However, it is […]
Primary care physicians (PCPs) face increasing challenges in the current healthcare environment: not having enough resources to care for patients, declining practice revenues, and overwhelming administrative burdens. On top of all that, there is a necessary, but mounting pressure to shift to value-based care. Having run a cardiothoracic surgery practice for 25 years, I have […]