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Cindy C Parman

Publications and source records attributed to Cindy C Parman.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2005

Using codes for patient tracking.

Although diagnosis and procedure codes are primarily assigned to ensure correct reimbursement, a number of codes can be used for patient tracking purposes. These codes are generally located in the "Supplementary Classification of Factors Influencing Health Status and Contact With Health Services" section of the ICD-9-CM manual, also known as the "V Codes." By using these codes to track certain segments of patient population, a practice can be prepared to forecast patient mix and anticipate specific collection or self-pay issues.

Forecasting↗
PubMed2005

Coding for new technology.

New procedures and new technology often outpace the development of medical codes to report these services to the insurance payors. Although unlisted procedure codes are not the first choice for reimbursement, it is essential that services be reported with only the code that accurately describes the procedure. For new equipment and techniques, this may result in an increased need for preauthorizing, reporting an unlisted procedure code, and ensuring that complete documentation accompany the claim. Practices should educate the insurance community where necessary to ensure that everyone is working toward the same goal: the best patient care possible.

Current Procedural Terminology↗
PubMed2005

Planning for a dedicated coder.

Although there are a number of complaints about the complexity of coding rules and regulations, physicians and facilities are still responsible for knowing the guide- lines-or employing someone who does. Also, the practice needs to establish processes to monitor compliance with payor guidelines. The good news is that physicians have an opportunity to improve their income through appropriate coding. According to MD Compliance Alert, April 15, 2002: "In fact, improper coding is the number one most visible and correctable problem in any given practice. Corrected, it can have the simplest, biggest, and quickest impact on most doctors' income".

Administrative Personnel↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Coding a physics week.

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Abstracting and Indexing↗
PubMedDate not supplied

The modifier of last resort.

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Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S.↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Unlisted codes.

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Current Procedural Terminology↗
PubMedDate not supplied

To code, or not to code?

In summary, it is also important to remember the hidden rules: 1) Just because there is a code in the manual, it doesn't mean it can be billed to insurance, or that once billed, it will be reimbursed. 2) Just because a code was paid once, doesn't mean it will ever be paid again--or that you get to keep the money! 3) The healthcare provider is responsible for knowing all the rules, but then it is impossible to know all the rules! And not knowing all the rules can lead to fines, penalties or worse! New codes are added annually (quarterly for OPPS), definitions of existing codes are changed, and it is the responsibility of healthcare providers to keep abreast of all coding updates and changes. In addition, the federal regulations are constantly updated and changed, making compliant billing a moving target. All healthcare entities should focus on complete documentation, the adherence to authoritative coding guidance and the provision of detailed explanations and specialty education to the payor, as necessary.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S.↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Coding consultations versus referrals.

Providers can expedite reimbursement and avoid nomenclature errors by properly differentiating between consultations and referrals. Since consultations allow higher levels of reimbursement, providers will also avoid possible fraud and abuse charges because of such mislabeling.

Current Procedural Terminology↗
PubMedDate not supplied

ICD-10-CM.

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Diagnostic Services↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Here we go again!

New CPT procedure codes are added annually (quarterly for Category II and Category III codes), definitions of existing codes are changed, and codes we have memorized are often deleted and replaced. In addition, guidelines for code assignment are constantly revised and may be altered based upon individual insurance payer interpretation. Remember, a code must accurately represent the service performed, and a code that is "close" to the procedure performed cannot be assigned. If the service performed is not defined by an existing procedure code (CPT Category I, II, III or HCPCS Level II), then an unlisted procedure code must be used. The forms and guidelines to request new codes or changes to procedure code descriptors are currently located on the American Medical Association website in the "CPT Process" section (www.ama-assn.org/ama/ pub/category/3112.html).

American Medical Association↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Port maintenance.

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Antineoplastic Agents↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Cardiac nuclear medicine.

Documentation of the specific nuclear medicine procedure performed should include whether the test represents the following: Perfusion or blood pool study. Planar or SPECT images. First pass or gated equilibrium (multiple-gated acquisition). Single or multiple studies. Criteria for the performance of add-on procedure codes. This will ensure that the correct procedure codes are reported and result in appropriate reimbursement.

Cardiovascular Diseases↗