Learn differences between CMS, CPT advice on observation coding to avoid errors
Effective Aug 6, 2012
Published Aug 6, 2012
Last Reviewed Oct 27, 2014
Get full reimbursement for observation services by paying close attention to the subtle but essential differences between Medicare requirements and CPT guidance. That allows you to tailor your coding to government-covered patients and to those on private plans. CMS claims data indicates observation services billing continues to cause headaches, as the 2010 denial rates for observation codes (99217-99220, 99234-99236) range from 8.0% to 13.9% (PBN 6/11/12). Note: Data for subsequent observation codes, which were introduced in 2011, are not yet available.
You must log in to view the content you requested.
Not a subscriber? Start accessing the article you’re seeking right away plus weekly, physician practice-specific news, analysis, guidance and specific tools that enable your practice to stay compliant and profitable during times of increased regulatory scrutiny.
Need multi-user access? Ensure uninterrupted individual access and maximum coding productivity for your whole team. For site license inquiries call: 1-855-CALL-DH1
Part B News is how you level the playing field and take control of the financial impact that the changing health care landscape has on your practice. When you subscribe to Part B News, you get step-by-step instructions from the nation's leading physician practice management experts on how to not just survive – but thrive – from changes at CMS and private payers. Plus, through this web site and its forums, you plug into a community of peers who'll share exactly what's working and what's not as questions arise in your practice.
A subscription to Part B News is the physician practice manager’s best tool to ensure that your practice collects every dollar it deserves. Our $25,000 guarantee ensures that your subscription will pay for itself at least 50 times over or we will refund the full year’s subscription fee.
To learn more about subscribing to Part B News, visit the DecisionHealth store right now.