Coding and billing for gastrointestinal endoscopy.
The complexities associated with the coding, billing, and reimbursement process seem to increase daily. Keeping abreast of the changes in this environment is, to say the least, a challenge. To succeed in today's billing environment the gastroenterologist should surround his or her practice with staff, resources, and education. Experienced skilled staff, preferably a certified professional coder should be employed. Certified coders bring advanced coding skills to ones practice, which allows increased proficiency with the coding and billing process. Provide the necessary resources for staff. Current coding material is crucial to the financial success of the practice. CPT-4, ICD-9, and Correct Coding Guide are the bare basics of the resource material available to staff. Maintaining a library of resource material (i.e., Medicare bulletins, managed care newsletters, and so forth) aids the staff with the necessary tools to carry out their duties. In addition, specific gastroenterology coding subscriptions are available to assist in staying ahead of the ever-changing billing and coding environment. Continuing education in the billing and coding process for both the physician and staff is essential. Numerous workshops are offered periodically. It is imperative that staff attends all Medicare-sponsored workshops in addition to gastroenterology-specific coding seminars. More and more physicians are now aware of their responsibility in the billing process and have begun to participate in the coding education along with their staff. This is a significant indicator of a physicians' intent to have a compliant and financially successful practice.
Stout
Patricia L
PL
Professional Coding Services, 2001 Laurel Ave., Newland Professional Bldg., Suite 602, Knoxville, TN 37916, USA. pstout@perfectserve.com
D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D004282:Documentation / Q000379:methods; D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal / Q000145:classification / Q000191:economics*; D005568:Forms and Records Control / Q000145:classification*; D006801:Humans; D007344:Insurance Claim Reporting / Q000145:classification*; D007349:Insurance, Health, Reimbursement; D008497:Medical Record Administrators; D008499:Medical Records / Q000145:classification*; D016345:Medicare Part B; D010350:Patient Credit and Collection; D013531:Surgicenters / Q000191:economics*; D014481:United States