Medical Office Manager

Coding

Chapter on diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue is a total revamp

By Judy Monestime  bio ICD-10-CM Chapter 12, "Diseases of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue (L00-L99)," represents a complete restructuring to bring together groups of diseases that are related to one another in some way. For example, dermatitis and eczema are separated from urticaria and erythematous conditions. Additionally, greater specificity has been added to … [Read more...] about Chapter on diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue is a total revamp

4 steps to take now so your practice is ready for ICD-10

By Judy Monestime  bio Now that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has confirmed October 1, 2015 as the go-live date for ICD-10, providers must focus on making their ICD-10 implementation strategy a top priority. The vast majority of healthcare providers expect to encounter a wide range of barriers to the ICD-10 implementation within the first six … [Read more...] about 4 steps to take now so your practice is ready for ICD-10

Is your practice an OIG enforcement target in 2015?

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), which oversees Medicare and Medicaid enforcement, has issued its 2015 Work Plan highlighting the compliance risk areas that it will target in its review and enforcement efforts. You will see some familiar topics, which the OIG also included in last year's plan, such as chiropractic services, place of service reporting, physical therapy, … [Read more...] about Is your practice an OIG enforcement target in 2015?

Boost revenue by training all staff on coding

Recently, we told you about the importance of getting the right people to handle your coding and billing. But the work doesn't stop once you've hired the best staff or outsourced with a reputable billing company. To keep on top of changes and compliance issues, training is essential. Here are answers to the classic five Ws: Who, What, When, Where, and Why, and the bonus, H: … [Read more...] about Boost revenue by training all staff on coding

Start local managers group to make job easier

"It doesn't matter if there are three people or five or 20," says the manager of an internal specialty medical office in Tennessee. It's worth the effort to set up a local management group. She did that in her area years ago and still finds it useful. The setup was not difficult. It was just a matter of calling the other managers and saying, "Why don't we get together and … [Read more...] about Start local managers group to make job easier

Diseases of the circulatory system expanded in ICD-10

By Judy Monestime  bio Chapter 9 of ICD-10 CM ranges from I00 to I99. This chapter contains an expanded number of specific codes that describe coronary, cerebral, and vascular diseases. "Use additional code to identify" notes appear throughout the chapter to direct the coder to identify exposure to, history of current use of, and dependence on tobacco. Codes also specify the … [Read more...] about Diseases of the circulatory system expanded in ICD-10

Model Tool: Certification table – billing and coding

Why you need this tool: Credentials serve as notification that you have acquired a certain level of knowledge and professional status. As such, they enhance your standing at your current job and your marketability should you seek a new position. How this tool helps you: You may already be eligible, or almost eligible, for billing and coding certifications. How to use this … [Read more...] about Model Tool: Certification table – billing and coding

Neoplasm codes changed in ICD-10

  By Judy Monestime  bio Watch for changes in neoplasm codes in ICD-10 CM. Chapter 2 of ICD-10 CM, ranging from C00 to D49, includes neoplasm codes which provide greater detail than ICD-9-CM codes for reporting neoplasms. The chapter includes these blocks C00-C14   Malignant neoplasms of lip, oral cavity and pharynx C15-C26   Malignant neoplasms of digestive … [Read more...] about Neoplasm codes changed in ICD-10