Healthcare coding is constantly in a state of change. Since ICD-10’s implementation, we’ve done our best to keep you informed and updated on all decisions, changes, and clarifications. Following proper coding practices increases the likelihood of prompt payment and keeps processing as efficient as possible. Below I’ve included a breakdown of changes and updates regarding comparison view x-rays, foot care, and surgical spine treatment.
Read MoreMedical billing and coding is undergoing a dramatic shift in the United States right now. After years of using the ICD-9 system, and two annual delays, the nation's healthcare system must now finally adopt the new ICD-10 coding system. Used around the world by most other advanced nations, the US is behind the eight ball in using this more advanced system. As a provider of orthopedic services, what orthopedic coding changes can you expect to see in 2016?
The New Year is upon us, and we know what that means: change. Orthopedic billing changes will be put into effect January 1st with the new, bundled, and removed codes, along with much bigger changes. During this time, it is important to make yourself aware of these changes on the horizon, become educated on them, and learn how your practice can best adapt to them. By doing so, your business is more likely to better maintain both efficiency and profitability throughout these changes.
Medical practices, including radiologists and orthopedic surgeons, are facing numerous challenges in 2015 as the entire healthcare industry debates the benefits of volume-based care versus value-based care. The current volume-based reimbursement model has faced controversy over the idea that doctors may be over-treating patients as a way to generate additional income or in an attempt to keep up with lowered reimbursements. This has created an ethical and financial dilemma for practices who want to be reimbursed at a rate that can keep their doors open, but without over-treating patients or increasing the volume of patients to unmanageable levels. The move from the volume-based to a value-based model is supposed to be a step toward resolving these concerns, but it also raises six critical issues when comparing the two models.