The most commonly reported CPT codes are getting a much-needed makeover. Shannon McCall, RHIA, CCS, CCS-P, CPC, CEMC, CRC, CCDS, writes about E/M code changes implemented this year and changes for implementation over the next two years.
Healthcare organizations and providers are experiencing a shift in outpatient reimbursement: from fee-for-service to Alternative Payment Models and value-based reimbursement based on quality outcomes.
CMS released a bulletin April 10 on behalf of HHS seeking providers to participate in a volunteer Provider Pilot Program to test the process for reviewing compliance with its HIPAA Administrative Simplification rules.
Representatives from CMS and the Office of Inspector General (OIG) discussed hot topics and focus areas at HCCA's 2019 Compliance Institute in Boston, including developing interactive documentation checklists, potential changes to Stark Law this year, and methods to address the high rate of coding and documentation errors on inpatient rehabilitiation facility (IRF) claims.
Telehealth services are likely to promote health, wellness, and disease management, providing an avenue to offer efficient, high-quality care while supporting value-based care in a cost-effective manner. Although the benefit of telehealth is obvious and its value is continually highlighted by CMS, it appears the services are underutilized.