Welcome to the Omega Technology Solutions newsletter!
Our group is very excited because we have the necessary tools to make your operations work more efficiently and smarter.
Please check out the articles below to learn more.
You can find an archive of our newsletters by going to:
www.omegatechnologysolutions.com/Newsletters.htm
On that same page, you can access our FAQ Blog. Send us questions, and we'll get you the answers. Please, check it out!
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Fourth quarter coding updates are here!!
The biggest changes occurred in the ICD-9-CM Volume 1 codes. There were over 300 new codes added and a multitude of changes, both to code title and text.
One example of new codes is:
488.1 - Influenza due to identified novel H1N1 influenza virus
Another example is a group of new codes for Merkel cell cancer. This type of cancer is rare and highly aggressive and appears to be caused by a newly discovered virus named Merkel cell polyomavirus.
These new codes are:
209.31 - Merkel cell carcinoma of the face
209.32 - Merkel cell carcinoma of the scalp and neck
209.33 - Merkel cell carcinoma of the upper limb
209.34 - Merkel cell carcinoma of the lower limb
209.35 - Merkel cell carcinoma of the trunk
209.36 - Merkel cell carcinoma of other sites
It is important to become familiar with the new codes and code changes to ensure the most accurate coding and optimum reimbursement.
There were very few changes to I/OCE (CMS) edits for this quarter, but be ready . . . . 1st quarter 2010 is just around the corner and we expect many updates to CPT/HCPCS codes.
There was an addition of HCPCS code Q2024 - Injection, Bevacizumab, 0.25mg. This code was assigned APC 1281 and has a status indicator of "K". Medicare will pay for this drug separately when administered and reported properly.
The Omega team stands poised to help you with your needs. Our OCExaminer is a great tool to utilize for compliance and claim issues and addresses everything from incorrect data elements, to missing interventional radiology codes, to RAC alerts. WebCDM offers a comprehensive review of your charge master and provides a current, up to the minute analysis. These services are web based and are available 24/7. |
Find out more about ChargeMaster...
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IMMUNIZE YOURSELF AGAINST IMPROPER PAYMENT FOR FLU VACCINATIONS
The AMA announced the release of a new CPT code along with a change to an existing code to cope with the expected onset of the flu season, specifically H1N1, more commonly known as the SWINE FLU. These changes were released September 28th and are effective immediately.
The two codes required for proper billing and reimbursement are:
90470 - H1N1 immunization administration (intramuscular, intranasal) including counseling, when provided (new code)
90663 - Influenza virus vaccine, pandemic formulation, H1N1 (changed code)
These codes should be used in conjunction with each other to report both the administration of the H1N1 vaccine as well as the vaccine itself.
CMS has also provided two codes to accommodate the provision of swine flu vaccinations which became effective October 1st and, just as the CPT codes above, should be used in conjunction with each other.
The codes for billing Medicare are:
G9141 - Influenza A H1N1, administration, with counseling when provided
G9142 - Influenza A H1N1, vaccine
G9141 carries a Medicare reimbursement of $24.89, so make sure to properly document and report these codes to ensure your bottom line doesn't sing the "flu blues".
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Thanks for your time!
Sincerely,
Ann Fierro, RN, CPA, MBA
President and News Editor
Omega Technology Solutions |
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| Thanks to Everyone! |
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We want to thank everyone of you who took the time to answer the surveys sent out by HFMA. We are so proud to have earned this prestigious designation!
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Putting the Pieces Together | |
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