Tag: Prior Authorization

Prior Authorization reforms

CMS Prior Authorization Reforms: A Step Forward, But More Needed

The updated CMS regulations on prior authorization have been lauded as a significant step toward reducing administrative burdens for physicians. However, critics argue that the changes fall short of addressing the broader issues. Accelerating Prior Authorization and Enhancing Transparency Issued in January, these regulations mandate federally regulated health plans to enhance electronic health information exchange […]
Medical Coding Denials

Top Strategies to Prevent Medical Coding Denials

Medical coding denials are a common challenge for healthcare providers and revenue cycle management (RCM) teams. They can disrupt cash flow, delay reimbursements, and increase administrative workloads. Avoiding these denials requires a proactive approach that addresses their root causes, ensures compliance with regulations, and fosters a culture of continuous improvement. In this blog, we’ll explore […]
Medicare Advantage contract

Avoiding Medicare Advantage Contract Pitfalls: A Guide for Physician Practices

It’s a story many physician practice owners know all too well. A hardworking doctor secures a promising Medicare Advantage contracts with a major payer, expecting substantial revenue—100% of Medicare fee-for-service rates. The new contract seems like a win: more resources for staff, improved facilities, and better patient care. Table of Contents Common Contractual Pitfalls Best […]
Insurance Claim Denials

Navigating Insurance Claim Denials: A Step-by-Step Guide

Imagine receiving an Insurance Claim Denials notice that states services are not covered or require prior authorization. Table of Contents Requires Prior Authorization Coverage Terminated or Member Not Eligible on the Date of Service Services Performed are Non-Covered Maximum Benefit for This Service Has Been Met Steps for Obtaining Authorization The Importance of Verification and […]
healthcare billing

How AI Revolutionizes Healthcare Billing: Tackling Payment Delays and Denials

During pediatric cardiology internship, witnessed this firsthand. A claim filed nearly a year earlier remained unpaid. The initial denial was due to a missing prior authorization number, a detail buried within the EMR. Unfortunately, the outsourced healthcare billing team took months to decipher this information, causing significant delays in reimbursement. This year-long ordeal highlights the […]
Medicare Advantage denials

Understanding the Rise of Medicare Advantage Denials: What Need to Know

Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, a type of private health insurance, have become increasingly popular among seniors. These plans offer additional benefits beyond traditional Medicare, but they also come with their own set of complexities.  One of the most significant issues faced by MA beneficiaries is Medicare Advantage denials for medical services. Recent data has revealed […]
Prior Authorization Burdens

Addressing Prior Authorization Burdens: Recent Reforms and Expert Perspectives

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 […]
MA Prior Authorization Denials

Medicare Advantage Prior Authorization Denials on the Rise

Surge in MA Prior Authorization Denials: New Study Reveals A new study highlights significant variation among Medicare Advantage plans regarding the number of determinations made and the frequency of denials. Notably, MA Prior Authorization Denials surged between 2021 and 2022, according to a recent analysis from health policy research. Researchers examined data from the Centers […]
Prior Authorization Requirements

Physician Discovers Hidden prior authorization Details in CPT Codes

A proposal to track prior authorization using CPT codes was pulled back for revision after a surprising finding. An urologist, advocated for the plan to compensate physicians for time spent on prior authorization requirements. He also hoped it would streamline the process and improve patient care. However, the American Medical Association (AMA) informed urologist that […]
Retina Injection coding

Master Retina Injection Coding for Smooth Billing & Reimbursement

Accurate coding is essential for retina practices performing intravitreal injections, especially when handling retina injection coding. While medication and modifier updates occur frequently, understanding these basics ensures proper reimbursement: CPT® Code Consistency: CPT® code 67028 remains constant for administering the medication. HCPCS Level II Code Tracking: Codes for injected drugs (HCPCS Level II) vary and […]