CMS to MACs, CERT, SMRCs & ZPICs: Scribes don't sign

by Julia Kyles, CPC on May 8, 2017
Keep a copy of Change Request 100076 to the Program Integrity Manual on hand if your practice uses scribes. It will help you fend off overpayment demands from auditors who try to ding your practice because the scribe didn't sign a chart. That's not how it works, CMS says in the Change Request:
Reviewers shall not deny claims for items or services because a scribe has not signed/dated a note.
The update applies to audits conducted by Medicare administrative contractors (MACs), comprehensive error rate testing auditors (CERT), supplemental medical review contractors (SMRCs) and zone program integrity contractors, CMS says.
 
That's one less thing for practices to worry about, but the improper use of scribes can cut efficiency and create costly errors. Learn the best practices for employing scribes during Scribes: boost practice and provider efficiency, avoid compliance traps, June 15, 1-2 p.m. ET.
Blog Tags: CMS
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