November 15, 2024 | By Scott Kraft, CPMA, CPC When I audit services performed in an infusion center, I’m addressing two key questions. First, were all of the patient’s infusion, injection, and/or hydration services documented appropriately for what is being billed? Second, if evaluation and management services were performed, were they medically necessary and…
Understanding Independent Interpretation in E/M Coding: Three Essential Requirements Shannon O. DeConda, CPC, CPMA, CEMA, CPA-EDU October 4, 2024 In the realm of Evaluation and Management (E/M) coding, independent interpretation is an often misunderstood component of the Medical Decision Making (MDM) table. Proper documentation of independent interpretation is required to impact the MDM and, consequently,…
Here’s Your Sign… Shannon O. DeConda, CPC, CPMA, CEMA, CPA-EDU August 30, 2024 I recently visited a new provider’s office and noticed two prominent signs posted everywhere—one about a $100 no-show fee and another offering B-12 shots for cash. Surprisingly, the compliance issue isn’t with the no-show fee but with the B-12 cash service. Let’s…
The Well Woman Exam Crystal Tompkins CDEO, CPMA, CPC, CRC, COBGC, and Educator and Auditor September 13, 2024 I will never forget the wonder of being asked to write an article for NAMAS. The nerd in me was ecstatic, and the auditor/coder in me was completely in shock. After that feeling subsided, reality quickly set…
Safeguarding Medical Necessity in Non-face-to-face Exchanges Anna McGregor CLP, CPC, CPCO, CPMA, CPA-RA, CEMC, CEMA September 6, 2024 Has there been a moment when auditing an encounter when one wondered if this service was necessary because a reasonable indication for medical services was not identified? Should medical necessity be identified as the appropriateness of a non-face-to-face…
Navigating Prescription Drug Medical Weight Loss Stephanie Allard, CPC, CEMA, CPA-RA, RHIT August 23, 2024 This year, a recurring issue is continuing to pop up in the audit reviews that I am completing for clients. The issue is related to medical weight loss and what I think is a complete misunderstanding in the industry regarding…
Let’s Chat: Today’s Take with Shannon DeConda Topic: G2211 Documentation It’s no secret that navigating G2211 can be challenging, especially when left without proper guidance. Unfortunately, the lack of clear direction can lead to a never-ending stream of questions and confusion. Today’s Take will provide useful information on the documentation best practices for G2211.…
March 29, 2024 | By: Teresa Schrage, RDCS, RVT, CPC, CPMA Reporting an E/M with separately reported services continues to be a topic of discussion amongst coders, auditors, and providers. First, let’s review what a significant, separately reported E/M is and what identifies the service. An E/M is significant and separately identifiable from a procedure/service…
April 12, 2024 | By: Tammy Welch, CPMA Eye allergy, also called allergic conjunctivitis, is quite common. They occur when the eyes react to something that irritates them (called an allergen). The eyes produce a substance called histamine to fight off the allergen. As a result, the eyelids, conjunctivitis, and eye allergies do not spread…
April 26, 2024 | Sean M. Weiss, CHC, CEMA, CMCO, CPMA, CPC-P, CMPE, CPC The perennial inquiry into the scope of services that nurses and ancillary support staff may offer under physician supervision remains a frequent topic of discussion. Furthermore, I frequently encounter situations where the concept of “incident-to” care is central to the controversy.…