Revenue cycle management (RCM) is the financial backbone of any medical practice, ensuring timely reimbursement while maintaining compliance with ever-evolving regulations. However, many practices unknowingly face significant compliance risks that can lead to claim denials, audits, financial penalties, and even legal consequences. Common pitfalls include billing and coding errors, fraud and abuse violations, HIPAA breaches, […]
Urology practices face unique challenges when it comes to billing and coding. The complexity of urological procedures, coupled with ever-changing coding guidelines, can lead to costly errors, claim denials, and revenue loss. Accurate and efficient billing is crucial for the financial health of any urology practice. This blog post will delve into common urology billing […]
Prior authorization, the requirement for pre-approval from your insurer for certain services, is a common practice in both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. While it helps manage utilization and costs, it can also be frustrating, especially when a request is denied. A 2023 study by health policy research revealed the increasing prevalence of […]
The Medicare Rights Center has submitted comments on the proposed Medicare Advantage and Part D rule for 2026 from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This annual rule introduces critical provisions aimed at strengthening prior authorization standards, enhancing transparency, and improving access to accurate plan information for beneficiaries. We strongly support these reforms […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 (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 […]