From video chats to relaxation of state licensing requirements, the coronavirus pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote and virtual healthcare services. Here is an update from CMS: Medicare Telehealth Visits: Effective for services starting March 6, 2020, and for the duration of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE), Medicare will make payments for Medicare … [Read more...] about Public health emergency jumpstarts remote care
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MIPS data submission deadline extended to April 30
The 2019 Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) data submission deadline has been extended by 30 days to April 30, 2020. In general, if you have already submitted MIPS data or if you submit MIPS data by April 30, 2020, you will be scored and receive a MIPS payment adjustment based on the data you submit. Many MIPS eligible clinicians have performed very well in the MIPS … [Read more...] about MIPS data submission deadline extended to April 30
CMS to provide accelerated and advanced payments during patient surge
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, CMS will provide accelerated payments to requesting providers and advance payments to requesting suppliers, including physicians and non-physician practitioners, who submit a request to the appropriate Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) and meet the criteria: CMS intends to provide assistance first to those providers and suppliers … [Read more...] about CMS to provide accelerated and advanced payments during patient surge
Before you let your employees work remote
By Paul Edwards bio In light of growing concerns surrounding coronavirus, many businesses are wondering if they will be faced with a decision to send employees home and/or close their doors for a period of time. One popular idea to address these concerns is to offer remote work (or ‘telework’) options. If you don’t regularly have remote workers, this may not be something … [Read more...] about Before you let your employees work remote
Protecting your medical practice during uncertain times
By John W. McDaniel bio Given the recent disruption and decreased demand for physician office services, coupled with the foreboding predictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, both hospital- affiliated and private medical practices are having to adjust their operations in order to provide billable patient care services while salvaging the cash flow/liquidity of the … [Read more...] about Protecting your medical practice during uncertain times
Practical guidance for medical office employers handling coronavirus
By Paul Edwards bio We know there is a lot of information (and misinformation) out there about the coronavirus (COVID-19) and how to handle it in the workplace. Our goal is to provide you with guidance on how to handle this as an employer—practical solutions for the impact the coronavirus may have on your business. If an employee is sick, can I send him/her home? If an … [Read more...] about Practical guidance for medical office employers handling coronavirus
4 steps prepare your medical office for coronavirus disease
The true impact of a COVID-19 outbreak in a U.S. community cannot be predicted. However, all healthcare facilities can take steps now to prepare for such an outbreak and protect both their patients and staff. 1 Be prepared: Stay informed about the local COVID-19 situation. Know where to turn for reliable, up-to-date information in your local community. Monitor the CDC … [Read more...] about 4 steps prepare your medical office for coronavirus disease
Don’t cast out a truth teller
By Lynne Curry bio “Morgan” was the one person who took issue with the CEO’s presentation of his new initiative. Before she voiced her concerns, the 12 other managers around the conference table had nodded appreciatively when the CEO made each of his points. Several other managers secretly shared Morgan’s doubts, but no one came to her aid when the CEO looked irritated. Six … [Read more...] about Don’t cast out a truth teller
Compliance Tool: Model In-Office Phlebotomist Agreement
The following Model Agreement between a referring physician and a testing lab was created by Savannah, GA, lab compliance attorney Adam Walters and structured to minimize kickback liability risks to each party in accordance with the OIG 1994 Special Fraud Alert, which remains the definitive source of federal guidance on the subject. Speak to your attorney about adapting the … [Read more...] about Compliance Tool: Model In-Office Phlebotomist Agreement
Five reasons you need an employee handbook
By Julie Ellison bio For many employers, the idea of creating an Employee Handbook is overwhelming. But the importance of having one should outweigh that hesitancy given the peace of mind it can provide you while you are busy running your law firm or business. An Employee Handbook is your roadmap for what your employees can expect from you and what you expect from your … [Read more...] about Five reasons you need an employee handbook