HIM professionals are being challenged like never before. By focusing on practical steps, closely monitoring official guidance, and embracing flexibility, they can stay on top of their duties.
CMS updated its novel coronavirus (COVID-19) fee-for-service billing FAQs on April 23 and May 1. The updated FAQs address the appropriate use of disaster-related modifiers, remote physiological monitoring (RPM), and more.
Q: I understand that disclosures of PHI can be made to law enforcement without patient authorization when the patient is suspected of committing a crime. What disclosures are permitted when law enforcement officials are investigating another person of a crime and a patient’s PHI may or may not provide evidence?
CMS issued a waiver on March 13 designed to help hospitals and other healthcare facilities better respond to the surge in demand placed on them by the COVID-19 pandemic. The waiver allows CMS to bypass traditional rules, including Conditions of Participation when necessary, and aims to help organizations move patients through levels of care more quickly to free up needed hospital beds for critically ill COVID-19 patients.
