On December 8, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared, “… December 7, 1941 – a day that will live in infamy….” when the USA was suddenly attacked by Japan. Many died from the attack itself and the ensuing world war into which America was thrust. On March 11, 2020, WHO declared COVID-19 a global pandemic (an infectious disease that has spread, in this case,...
CAM, Acupuncture, and Medicare
CAM? Isn’t she some female American country music singer/songwriter? No – a CAM is a rotating or sliding piece in a mechanical linkage that has something to do with turning rotary motion into linear motion – at least that’s what the dictionary said. Besides, what would have female country music singer or a car engine part have to do with acupuncture? Well, they have...
Metabolic Complications of Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus (DM) Types 1 and 2 are both known to be associated with a variety of complications. Some complications, like kidney disease or ophthalmic problems are, more often than not, related to poorly controlled diabetes. Acute metabolic complications are one of the many different types of complications that can develop in patients with diabetes. These...
Dermatology Coding: Utilizing Modifiers to Ensure Accuracy
Dermatology is one of the more complex specialties in medical billing and coding, with a wide range of procedures that can be performed either in the office or in the same day surgery setting. An in-depth understanding of dermatology CPT codes and the appropriate use of modifiers is crucial to ensure accurate coding and reimbursement. Modifier 59 Modifier 59, Distinct...
Spinal Fusion: Tips for Accurate Device Selection
Spinal fusions can be performed using a variety of techniques, and selection of the correct sixth character is crucial in identifying the device/material used to perform the fusion. Understanding the different methods of spinal fusions and associated devices, along with Official Coding Guidelines and Coding Clinic, can help to alleviate spinal fusion confusion. ...
Tips for Wound Care Documentation
Active wound care procedures are performed to remove devitalized and/or necrotic tissue to promote healing. Debridement is the removal of foreign material and/or devitalized or contaminated tissue from or adjacent to a traumatic or infected wound until surrounding healthy tissue is exposed. These services are billed when an extensive cleaning of a wound is needed prior to...
Outpatient Clinical Documentation Improvement . . . Achieving a Successful Program (Part II)
Outpatient Clinical Documentation Improvement/Integrity is gaining more and more attention. Having a successful program involves preparation, planning and executive. As we discussed in Part I (in the previous RMC newsletter) there are several key components to an OP CDI program. A best practice is to identify one setting that you wish to focus your CDI program on to...
