http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/Practice+Management/Article/list/25083 Ancillary services, billing/collections, business forms, business operations, coding, compensation, group practice, HIPAA, managed care, Medicare/Medicaid, patient handouts, patient relations, practice pointers, productivity, professional issues, records, solo practice, staffing/personnel management 2009-11-21T07:25:29Z http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Business+Operations/Can-an-MSO-help-you/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/382217?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 A management services organization can take some hassles off your back, but there's a price. Make sure you know what you're getting into. 2006-11-03T05:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/432006/382217null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Patient+Relations/Is-this-free-technology-worth-it/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/382219?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Video programs and "webpads"—with targeted messages—are being placed in thousands of physicians' waiting rooms. Should yours be next? 2006-11-03T05:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/432006/382219null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/382213?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Chronic conditions 2006-11-03T05:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/432006/382213null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Economics+magazine/Competitionmdashjust-a-phone-call-away/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/379588?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 TelaDoc offers subscribers 24/7 access to its on-call physicians. It may be good business. But is it good medicine? 2006-10-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/422006/379588null XML http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Business+Operations/Can-expense-sharing-work/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/379587?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our roundtable panel of management consultants outline how neighboring physicians can join forces to cut costs and boost profits. 2006-10-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/422006/379587null XML http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Business+Operations/Practice-911/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/379591?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 What you can learn from three medical office emergencies. 2006-10-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/422006/379591null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/379584?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Answers to your questions about...intranasal flu vaccine; next-day hospital admission; possible consult 2006-10-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/422006/379584null XML http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Business+Operations/Ready-set-swipe/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/379592?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Patients are using debit and credit cards more than ever, so make sure you run a plastic-savvy practice. 2006-10-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/422006/379592null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Consult-answers-to-your-questions-about/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/376051?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Cerumen removal 2006-10-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/392006/376051null XML http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Business+Operations/3-advisers-every-practice-needs/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/376054?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Who's got your back, why you need them, and where to find them. 2006-10-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/392006/376054null XML http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Business+Operations/What-legal-threats-await/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/376060?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our roundtable of experts pinpoint the key legal areas—besides malpractice—that are likely to land doctors in trouble next year. 2006-10-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/392006/376060null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Consult/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/370382?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Answers to your questions about...back-to-back hospital admissions; Sports physicals; Minor puncture wounds 2006-09-15T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/362006/370382null XML http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/Practice+Management/Economic-credentialing-When-hospitals-play-hardbal/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/370384?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 This doctor's hospital threatened to terminate her privileges because of her husband's interest in a competing hospital. 2006-09-15T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/362006/370384null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/InfoTech+Bulletin/Reimbursement-Computer-assisted-coding-market-to-b/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/548654?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 By 2014, your patient billing system may remind you about the follow-up visit you forgot to schedule, or warn you about the test you neglected to bill for during your last patient physical. 2008-09-12T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/372008/548654null HTML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/InfoTech+Bulletin/Telemedicine-Internet-video-conferencing-more-effe/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/542914?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Internet audio and video consultations between doctors and stroke patients proved so much more effective than telephone calls that a study comparing the two was prematurely halted. 2008-08-22T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/342008/542914null HTML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Economics/QampA-Different-payments-for-the-same-code/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/542245?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Multiple procedures utilizing the same code can result in a lower rate of payment. 2008-08-15T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/332008/542245null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Economics/QampA-Advance-payments/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/542247?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Advance payments are available to practices in need of financial help until claims processing issues are resolved. 2008-08-15T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/332008/542247null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Economics/QampA-Billing-for-critical-care/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/542248?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Two physicians' time may not be combined to make up the 30-74 minutes of critical care required to bill a 99291. 2008-08-15T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/332008/542248null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Economics/QampA-Rejected-billing/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/542246?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Some billing locations require nine-digit zip codes for payment. 2008-08-15T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/332008/542246null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Economics/How-to-dismiss-a-noncompliant-patient/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/532660?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 How do I dismiss a noncompliant patient from my practice? 2008-08-01T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/312008/532660null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Economics/Protecting-yourself-against-noncompliance/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/532658?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I treat many high-risk patients, what's the best way to limit my liability for those who are noncompliant? 2008-08-01T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/312008/532658null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Economics/Billing-same-day-procedures/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/532652?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 We are having difficulty getting paid for visits that occur on the same day that procedures are done in the office, even though we are using modifier 25. Any suggestions? 2008-08-01T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/312008/532652null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management/Joining-a-new-practice-doesnt-require-a-new-Nation/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/532654?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Joining a new practice doesn't require a new National Provider Identifier. 2008-08-01T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/312008/532654null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Economics/Can-I-charge-for-a-new-patient-visit-at-a-new-prac/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/532659?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Can I charge for a new-patient visit at a new practice if I saw the patient at my previous practice? 2008-08-01T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/312008/532659null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Economics/Services-always-excluded-from-Medicare-dont-requir/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/532653?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Services that have never been covered by Medicare don't require an ABN modifier in order to bill the patient. 2008-08-01T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/312008/532653null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Scheduling/Improve-scheduling-to-eliminate-patient-backups/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/530034?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Eliminating big backups will improve patient satisfaction and relieve stress on you and your staff. 2008-07-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/292008/530034/ME071808_bottle_flash.jpg XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Tobacco-cessation-counseling-reimbursements-have-c/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/530033?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Did the smoking cessation counseling codes change? 2008-07-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/292008/530033null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/%22Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Serious-conditions-discovered-during-a-routine-exa/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/530032?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Billing for a routine exam which uncovers a serious medical problem must be handled on a case-by-case basis. 2008-07-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/292008/530032null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Extended-office-hours-require-different-billing/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/530031?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 How do I bill for service during extended office hours? 2008-07-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/292008/530031null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Billing%2FCollections/Are-more-hospital-contracts-switching-to-RVUs/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/530041?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Are RVU-based contracts the standard in today's medical environment? 2008-07-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/292008/530041null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Billing%2FCollections/Can-I-see-an-HMOs-patients-before-my-credentialing/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/530044?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I applied to get credentialed with another managed-care company but haven't yet received final approval. May I start seeing their enrollees anyway? 2008-07-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/292008/530044null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Billing%2FCollections/How-HIPAA-affects-checks-that-bounce/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/530042?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our collection agency says that due to HIPAA regulations, it no longer can contact a patient directly if his check bounces. Instead, we must charge the amount back to the patient's account as an unpaid balance and turn the account over for collections. Is this true? 2008-07-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/292008/530042null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Billing%2FCollections/Can-you-charge-for-filling-out-forms/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/530043?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I plan to charge a fee for filling out forms for physicals, disability, and family medical leave. Would this policy run afoul of health plan regulations or any other rules? 2008-07-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/292008/530043null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Scheduling/Should-you-turn-away-tardy-patients/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/525987?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I'm tired of waiting for patients who show up late for their appointments. To discourage this, I'd like to have my staff tell anyone who arrives more than five minutes late that she must reschedule for another day. Does this policy seem reasonable? 2008-07-04T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/262008/525987null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Staffing/Take-your-staff-from-good-to-great/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/525974?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Important as it is to find the right people, keeping them happy and productive is key to a successful practice. 2008-07-04T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/262008/525974null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/Collecting-revenue-for-ancillary-care-provided-at-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/525986?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I'm employed by a not-for-profit hospital. Does that mean I can't collect revenue for ancillary services such as lab work and imaging? 2008-07-04T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/262008/525986null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/Is-it-ever-too-late-to-bill-a-patient/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/525984?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 How long after I treat a patient may I bill him for my services? Bills were never sent for some patients I saw between 2002 and 2006. May I bill them now? 2008-07-04T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/262008/525984null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Business+Operations/Borrowing-money-in-a-credit-crunch/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/525975?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 It's still possible—with a solid banking relationship, a sharp business plan, and ample collateral. 2008-07-04T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/262008/525975null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/Privacy-concerns-when-defending-a-claim/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/525985?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 A former associate has filed a claim against me for pay she believes I owe her. In my defense, may I release patient records, including names and financial data, or will that violate HIPAA? 2008-07-04T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/262008/525985null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/Releasing-records-of-a-deceased-patient/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/522092?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I received a request for a deceased patient's chart from someone claiming to be a representative of the patient's estate. Don't I need to verify that she's telling the truth before I release the chart? 2008-06-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/232008/522092null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/How-to-divide-income-from-midlevel-providers/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/522090?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 We're planning to hire several midlevel providers for our rapidly growing five-doctor practice, mostly to help with the influx of new patients. How should we divvy up the income from the midlevels, since reimbursements for new-patient visits are usually higher than those for returning patients? 2008-06-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/232008/522090null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Billing%2FCollections/What-your-medical-billing-service-says-about-you/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/522082?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 After this man's wife died, he received an upsetting call about his outstanding bill. 2008-06-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/232008/522082null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Business+Operations/Small-practice-evolution-The-medical-micropractice/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/522081?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Going without staff, using technology, and spending more time with fewer patients characterize the micropractice model. 2008-06-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/232008/522081null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Billing-separately-for-spirometry/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/522079?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 When evaluating our allergy patients, we normally order spirometry (94010). If it's warranted, we then order a bronchodilator (94060), followed by a second spirometry to assess the treatment's effectiveness. The charge for the initial spirometry is always rejected, as is the office visit. The first spirometry is to determine if a bronchodilator is indicated, so we consider it a separate service; the visit evaluates their overall status, so that should be a separate service as well. The visits are usually paid on appeal, but not the spirometry. Any suggestions? 2008-06-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/232008/522079null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/Can-you-cash-old-insurance-checks/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/522091?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 We recently found several two-year-old insurance reimbursement checks?one for more than $5,000. The checks are marked "void after 90 days" and the patient is now insured by a different carrier. What should we do? 2008-06-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/232008/522091null XML http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Patient+Relations/The-new-doctor-patient-paradigm/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/522085?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 How the shift from the "physician as wise parent" model to one of more shared responsibility is playing out in the exam room. 2008-06-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/232008/522085/patientparadigm062008_flash.JPG XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Coding-for-immune-globulin-injections/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/522078?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I sometimes give immune globulin injections to patients traveling outside the US. I use the 90281 (immune globulin) code plus 90471 (immunization administration), in addition to the code for the visit, but the administration is always denied. Can you tell me why? 2008-06-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/232008/522078null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/Are-medical-assistants-allowed-to-give-injections/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/522093?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 How can I find out whether medical assistants are allowed to give injections in my state, and if they are, what restrictions apply? 2008-06-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/232008/522093null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Billling-for-physical-therapy-services/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/522077?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our pain management group is considering a merger with a profitable two-provider physical therapy practice. Before moving ahead, we have two concerns. First, how would we report the PTs' services? Second, the practice's charges are well above the national average--a fact the PTs attribute to hard work, long hours, and multiple locations. Should we be concerned? 2008-06-20T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/232008/522077null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/Got-a-summons-to-appear-before-the-state-medical-b/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518804?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I've been called to appear before my state's Board of Medical Examiners regarding a patient I treated for depression. The board stated no specific reason. Should I bring an attorney with me? 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518804null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Group+Practice/Challenges-of-large-groups-Human-dynamics/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518790?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 The larger the group, the greater the potential for clashes. People-savvy leaders offer advice on avoiding conflict. 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518790/bigculture060608_flash.JPG XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Patient+Relations/My-financial-prescription-for-ailing-patients/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518783?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Help ease your patients' money problems, and you may improve their health, says the author. 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518783null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/If-divorcing-parents-request-a-childs-medical-reco/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518803?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Parents going through divorce and custody battles have been requesting immunization records and letters about treatment of their kids' health conditions, primarily to prove that they're adequate caregivers. What are the legal implications for me? What are my obligations? To whom may I give this information? 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518803null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Reimbursement-for-cardiac-electrophysi/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518780?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our large cardiology group encompasses numerous subspecialties, invasive and noninvasive cardiology and cardiac electrophysiology among them. When one of our general cardiologists refers a patient to our cardiac EP, who sees the patient on the same day, our claims are often rejected. Both the generalist's visit and the EP consult are typically paid on appeal, but we'd like to avoid having to file an appeal. What's happening, and what do you suggest? 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518780null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Group+Practice/Best-ways-to-deal-with-call-coverage/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518782?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Don't stew in anger over your annoying call coverage schedule. Here's how to improve the situation. 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518782null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Malpractice%3A+Abandonment+Q%26As/The-risk-of-leaving-hospital-care-to-others/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518805?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I've decided not to renew credentialing with one of the two hospitals in my town. If one of my patients is admitted to that hospital and the attending physician there calls me for a consult, do I have an obligation (professional or legal) to go? I'd like to just say that I don't go to that hospital, the attending physician should get another specialist for the consult, and I will take over the patient's care when he or she is discharged. Is there anything wrong with that? 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518805null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/Reporting-patients-bad-debt-to-the-credit-bureaus/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518802?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I'm frustrated with patients who refuse to pay their outstanding bills. I'd like to report their overdue balances to the three major credit bureaus as bad debts. What do you think of this idea? 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518802null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Group+Practice/Challenges-of-large-groups-Making-better-business-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518789?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 We look at key business issues facing doctors in large practices and the strategies they're employing, not only to survive but to thrive. 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518789/biggroupbiz060608_flash.JPG XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Patient+Relations/The-Way-I-See-It-Helping-patients-shouldnt-hurt-me/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518788?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 The author's extra effort to get low-cost drugs for her patients works to her detriment under P4P. 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518788null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Business+Law%3A+Contracts+Q%26As/When-time-runs-out-on-an-outstanding-loan/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518806?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I loaned $4,000 to an employee and she never repaid me. Is there any statute of limitation that indicates how long I have to take her to court to recover what she owes me? 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518806null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/A-time-limit-on-a-HIPAA-compliant-medical-release/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518801?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 How long is a HIPAA-compliant, signed medical release valid? 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518801null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/Should-a-Medicare-HMO-pay-for-out-of-network-emerg/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518799?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I accept Medicare patients, but I don't participate in any private health plans. When I'm called to the ED to perform surgery on a patient covered by a Medicare HMO, who's responsible for paying me? 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518799null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Modifier-26-indicates-professional-com/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518779?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our pathology group is a private practice, not part of the hospital where we perform our services. Our new biller maintains that since we're an independent entity, it's not necessary to use any modifiers when billing our services. But we've experienced massive claims rejections recently. Could this be due to the lack of modifier use? If so, should our new biller have anticipated this? 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518779null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Practice+Management+Q%26As/Charting-by-computer-without-an-EHR/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518800?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Until I get an EHR, I've been typing my care notes into a Microsoft Word template. Then I print them out, sign them, and store them in the patient's chart. I save the electronic copy in read-only format on a network server that's password protected. Do you see any weaknesses in this system that, in a malpractice trial, might give a plaintiffs' attorney the opportunity to suggest that I could have altered records? 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518800null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-The-difference-between-billing-for-ski/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518781?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 We're about to take on nursing home patients and have the following billing questions: Is billing different for patients in a nursing home versus a skilled nursing home, and what's the difference between the two? Do we bill the nursing home or the insurer? 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518781null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Patient+Relations/What-I-learned-about-patients-relationships/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518785?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Sometimes it's too easy to forget what loved ones mean to us. Here's what reminded this doctor. 2008-06-06T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/212008/518785null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Patient+Relations/Certifying-FMLA-eligibility-after-an-ED-encounter/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/516927?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 When I serve on the ED call roster, I frequently see elderly patients. Recently, I've received several requests to fill out FMLA forms from adult children who accompanied their parents to the ED and then took time off from work to care for them after they left the hospital. I only cared for these patients in the ED. Do I have any obligation to fill out these forms? 2008-05-16T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/202008/516927null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Staffing/Can-you-reform-a-lazy-employee/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/516926?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 One of our receptionists shows absolutely no initiative. She makes no effort to promptly answer the phone, doesn't file unless she's asked, and never offers to help the co-workers who frequently assist her. On the other hand, she has a wonderful personality and has been with us for seven years, with perfect attendance. Is there any way to rehabilitate her? 2008-05-16T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/202008/516926null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Group+Practice/How-to-land-the-best-associates-for-your-medical-p/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/516910?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Posting an ad for an associate is not enough. You need to convince job candidates that your practice is desirable. 2008-05-16T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/202008/516910null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Reporting-extended-visit-codes/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/516908?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our practice has never billed for extended visits, but we often spend a great deal of time counseling patients. How do we go about reporting extended visit codes? What else needs to be documented besides the history, exam, and medical decision-making? 2008-05-16T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/202008/516908null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Locum-tenens-billing/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/516907?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 One of our physicians was called to active duty earlier this year. We've hired a substitute doctor and plan to bill his services as a locum tenens physician. Our concern is that we can only do this for 60 days. Do we need to find another replacement after that time has elapsed or can we ask for an extension?or discharge and rehire the same locum tenens doctor? 2008-05-16T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/202008/516907null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Reimbursement-for-post-ED-care/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/516906?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our family practice routinely sees patients after they've been treated in the ED for lacerations, fractures, and similar injuries. We've recently seen an increase in claim denials for such services because the ED physicians are billing for complete care for procedures, even though we're doing the follow-up. What can we do? 2008-05-16T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/202008/516906null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Business+Operations/Small-practice-evolution-Cash-only-medical-practic/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/516911?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 It's possible to walk away from third-party payers and still create a satisfying practice. 2008-05-16T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/202008/516911null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Malpractice%3A+Risk+Management/A-refund-for-a-patients-disappointing-outcome/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/516925?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 How do I handle a patient's demand for a refund for an outcome that was less than perfect? 2008-05-16T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/202008/516925null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/InfoTech+Bulletin/Electronic-payment-Nearly-three-in-10-doctors-dont/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/515543?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Talk about being stuck in the 19th century. Twenty-eight percent of medical practices still don’t accept credit cards, according to a survey by SK&A Information Services. 2008-05-09T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/192008/515543null HTML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-NPI-transition/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512289?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 We've been using the NPI on our electronic claims for several months without a problem. Suddenly we've begun receiving rejections from virtually every commercial insurer. Our clearinghouse indicates that the problem is the information contained in the NPPES (NPI) files, but we've scrutinized these files for each of our providers and corrected any misinformation and are still having problems with claims. Is there an issue we're unaware of? 2008-05-02T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/172008/512289null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Records/Tips-for-managing-medical-office-document-clutter/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512291?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Clutter can impair office efficiency and even hamper revenue collection. Here's how to cure the too-much-paper bottleneck. 2008-05-02T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/172008/512291null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Small+practice+evolution/Small-practice-evolution-New-models-go-mainstream/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512297?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 A growing number of doctors are dedicated to keeping the small practice model alive. In using innovative strategies to keep solo or small group practices successful, they're stubbornly bucking a trend that's become familiar in recent years. 2008-05-02T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/172008/512297null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Career%2FPersonal+Development+for+Physicians/Should-these-physicians-join-a-union/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512305?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I'm one of several physicians employed by a hospital. None of us are supervisors. When we asked for a raise, the hospital cut off negotiations and threatened to fire us. Can we form a union to negotiate for better wages? 2008-05-02T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/172008/512305null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Patient+Relations/Reporting-a-patients-drug-seeking-behavior/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512304?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 In my state's prescription monitoring database, I found that one of my patients has been getting prescriptions for the same DEA-controlled medication from several physicians. Can I report this to the other prescribers? 2008-05-02T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/172008/512304null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Small+practice+evolution/Small-practice-evolution-The-open-access-medical-o/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512298?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Seeing patients when they want to be seen helps you respond to their needs and stay competitive. 2008-05-02T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/172008/512298/goopenaccess050208_flash.JPG XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Staffing/Allowing-employees-time-off-during-work-hours/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512306?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our practice's employees often leave during the day to take care of personal matters. Although they claim they make up the lost time by working through lunch, I suspect they're not putting in the 40 hours a week we're paying them for. Should we be flexible and allow them to come and go as long as the work gets done, or should we insist they adhere to a regular 9 to 5 workday? 2008-05-02T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/172008/512306null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Specifying-place-of-servicemdashsatell/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512288?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our surgery practice has a satellite office in a nearby hospital. We report place of service 11 (office) for the E&M services we provide at that location, but our Medicare carrier recently notified us that because we're located in an outpatient hospital facility, we should be specifying place of service 22 (outpatient) instead. Is this correct? 2008-05-02T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/172008/512288null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Small+practice+evolution/Small-practice-evolution-Making-the-switch-to-conc/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512299?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Want to spend more time with your patients? Consider a retainer practice. 2008-05-02T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/172008/512299/goconcierge050208_flash.JPG XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Avoiding-incident-to-situations-with-a/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512290?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I'm a PA, employed by a company owning multiple skilled nursing facilities in our city. I don't have provider numbers with various insurers, but I see patients with the oversight of an MD who's not always onsite. My services are being billed with the provider numbers of the "supervising" physician. I'm new to practice, so I'm not sure whether this is a problem? Is it? 2008-05-02T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/172008/512290null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Locum-tenens-billing/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508925?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 A physician left our group recently and we hired a locum tenens until a replacement can be found. Can we use the previous physician's provider number with the Q6 modifier for billing purposes until then? 2008-04-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/152008/508925null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Billing%2FCollections/Get-your-NPI-number-NOW/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508927?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 After May 23, only this identifier will get your Medicare claims paid. 2008-04-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/152008/508927null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Coding-for-immunizations/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508923?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our practice has been using immunization codes 90465-90468 for patients who are 8 or younger and 90471-90474 for older patients, but we were recently told that this is incorrect. Can you tell us what's wrong and how to fix it? 2008-04-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/152008/508923null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Billing%2FCollections/Collecting-from-an-out-of-state-patient/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508939?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I recently provided care for a patient visiting from another state. He filed an out-of-network claim for my services, but his insurer refused to pay, and he hasn't responded to the bill I sent him. What should I do? 2008-04-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/152008/508939null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Business+Operations/How-I-built-a-successful-medical-practice-in-under/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508928?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 This author had a mountain of medical school debt, but he made savvy decisions that brought professional and personal satisfaction. 2007 DOCTORS' WRITING CONTEST - BEST PRACTICE SOLUTION 2008-04-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/152008/508928null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Medicare-provider-obligations/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508924?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 I'm employed by a large group practice in a resort community that participates in Medicare. Several resort owners have asked me to provide weekend and evening care to vacationers. They'll inform anyone who wishes to use my services that I take cash only and will not bill third-party payers. They also suggested that I set my fees to "adequately compensate" me for being on call. Is this is too good to be true? 2008-04-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/152008/508924null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Staffing/When-a-medical-office-manager-cant-keep-pace/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508940?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 Our practice has grown rapidly. Our office manager?a former biller who moved up the ladder?can't keep up with the expanded responsibilities. How do we tell a loyal employee that she's no lmedical practice,office manager,practice administration onger up to the job? 2008-04-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/152008/508940null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Ancillary+Services/Ancillary-Services-Adding-cosmetic-procedures-to-a/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508930?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 America's pursuit of youth and doctors' need to offer more services have created what could be an ideal opportunity for you. 2008-04-18T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/152008/508930/newancillaries041808_flash.JPG XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Patient+Relations/When-a-patient-refuses-your-dismissal-letter/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/505796?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 A patient refused delivery of my certified letter dismissing him from my practice for noncompliance. Now what? 2008-04-04T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/132008/505796null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Billing%2FCollections/Getting-paid-when-patients-have-bare-bones-coverag/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/505783?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 To cope with the surge in skimpy health insurance policies, adjust your billing and payment procedures. Here's how. 2008-04-04T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/132008/505783null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Staffing/Coordinating-physician-and-staff-vacations/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/505794?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 During the summer when the physicians in our cardiology group take three- and four-week vacations (not at the same time), our office hours are reduced. That results in a lot of down time for our staff. With reduced hours cutting revenue, we can't afford to pay people for just sitting around. How can we organize our summers to keep everybody busy? 2008-04-04T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/132008/505794null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Economics/A-major-health-plan-recredentialing-project/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/505795?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 When I resign from my current group, I want to maintain my current health plan affiliations. The prospect of recredentialing with three dozen plans simultaneously is mind boggling. What's the best way to handle the administrative hassle? 2008-04-04T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/132008/505795null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Coding/Coding-Cues-Billing-for-family-members/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/501543?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 One of my associates is treating the father of the senior partner in our corporation and billing Medicare for his services. It's my understanding that CMS doesn't permit a physician to bill for medical services provided to his own family members or those of other doctors in his group, but others in our practice disagree. Who's right? 2008-03-21T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/112008/501543null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Patient+Relations/A-patients-final-gift-moved-me-to-tears/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/501550?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 The captain's "gift" was something this internist would never have anticipated. 2008-03-21T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/112008/501550null XML http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Medical+Practice+Management%3A+Relations+with+colleagues/Best-ways-to-communicate-with-specialists/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/501551?contextCategoryId=25083&ref=25 This doctor learned that reading others' chart notes is not enough. 2008-03-21T04:00:00Z http://medicaleconomics.modernmedicine.com/memag/data/articlestandard/memag/112008/501551null XML