COVID-19 Medicare billing rules continue to evolve, so it can be challenging to stay abreast of the developments. Some recent changes have given case managers and hospitals more flexibility when it comes to treating both COVID-19 and non-COVID patients, as medical practices increasingly look to resume providing elective surgeries and other procedures.
This week's note from the instructor discusses the steps involved in the prior authorization process for certain hospital outpatient department services.
Q: Like other hospitals, we have had many patients transported via ambulance with COVID-19 symptoms. Once these patients are tested for the virus, are we permitted under HIPAA to disclose their test results to the first responders who treated them and brought them to the hospital?
HIM professionals have developed innovative solutions to the COVID-19 pandemic. Figuring out what works and what doesn’t will be key over the coming months. Learn how to manage the constant change and monitor for potential problem areas.
Q: Case managers are often being called to fill other roles during the COVID-19 pandemic. How can case managers contribute if they lack the skills or the recent experience necessary to succeed as bedside nurses?
