If you're wondering whether you have to use the new CMS G-codes, the answer is a resounding no. They're entirely voluntary. CMS launched the physician voluntary reporting program (PVRP) in January 2006 in an effort to better analyze quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries. Still, despite the program's good intentions, many providers are left wondering how and why they should participate.

Set goals, follow up frequently to get the most out of employee appraisals Many organizations view employee performance appraisals as a necessary evil-an annual routine that takes time and resources away from other, more important work, says William Moskal, EdD, senior partner at IRI Consultants to Management, Inc., in Detroit. But they don't have to be. If you simply go through the motions with your annual performance evaluations without considering what you want to accomplish, you probably aren't getting all you can from the process.

Knowing when to apply screening codes (e.g., G0101 and Q0091) is important to ensure proper payment and, ultimately, enhanced revenue at your practice. Although the guidelines discussed in this article relate solely to Medicare, other insurers may also pay for these services. Although Medicare does not pay for an annual visit except for the initial one (G0344), you may separately bill for the clinical breast and pelvic exam (G0101) and screening Pap smear (Q0091). To ensure proper reimbursement, be aware of and follow the these screening code guidelines

Editor's note: This is the first in our two-part series about physician philanthropy. Next month, we'll examine opportunities for physicians to use their medical skills as volunteers. You may be accustomed to a segregated approach to philanthropy and investing. You spend a great deal of resources and time trying to maximize your investment returns, and then you set aside a portion of your earnings to donate to your favorite charitable cause. But that's "a black and white view of investing," says Gil Crawford,1 general manager of MicroVest Capital Management, LLC. "You make money with one hand and give it away with the other."