Finally, an APC code for observation: now find out the rules for getting paid.
A new ambulatory payment classification code was created for observation, with a payment rate of $351. Three diagnoses qualify for reimbursement: congestive heart failure, chest pain, and asthma. Active physician involvement in assessment and writing orders is required. Nurses should document the time when physician orders were started.
D000043:Abstracting and Indexing; D000553:Ambulatory Care / Q000145:classification / Q000191:economics*; D014487:Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S.; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000145:classification / Q000191:economics*; D006801:Humans; D007344:Insurance Claim Reporting / Q000145:classification*; D008499:Medical Records / Q000145:classification; D019370:Observation; D010343:Patient Admission; D010351:Patient Discharge; D012051:Reimbursement Mechanisms; D014481:United States