Codes, codes and more codes. Even though they’re a part of every business day in the chiropractic documentation and billing process, they can be incredibly confusing for chiropractors and billing staff alike. Keeping track of which codes to use when, why some raise red flags, and why others result in denials can exhaust even the most determined among us.
That’s why we’ve gathered some of our best chiropractic procedure code tips, all in one place. They’ll help you with everything from tracking less attention from auditors, to learning the deeper meaning of codes and modifiers.
Our Five Best Chiropractic Procedure Code Tips
1. Learn about the language of coding.
Did you know that coding is its own language?
And if you learn the language, it’s easier to understand and know how to communicate the right message to payers and reviewers. You probably didn’t learn the nitty gritty of documentation and coding in school or training, but there’s a great way to learn it now.
Watch this 30-minute webinar presented by Brandy Brimhall, designed especially for doctors, billers and CAs who are involved in data entry. Brandy is a recognized expert in chiropractic billing, coding & compliance, a sought after speaker at state and national chiropractic conferences, and a regular contributor to multiple chiropractic publications.
2. Find out the difference between Mechanical Traction and CMT.
Some payers are denying Mechanical Traction (CPT Code 97012) on the same date of service as the Chiropractic Manipulative Treatment (CMT 98940-98942).
You’ve probably received denials that include a number of different rationales. For example, some explanations imply that DCs should trade-in their adjusting tables for another intersegmental traction table.
Find out here how these CPT codes differ, and how various modalities might assist in accomplishing and/or complementing some of the same objectives as the CMT codes or 97012. You’ll also see a three-step plan that will help you handle denials, and an alternative plan that can ease all that coding stress.
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3. Know what auditors look for.
Without even knowing it, you might be sending out bright red billing flags to auditors.
Who needs that kind of attention? Better billing patterns and appropriate coding will help you avoid audits. Fortunately, there are specific things you can do to deter scrutiny. In fact, you have tools right at your fingertips that will keep your practice billing protected.
Find out here about the seven elements of payable claims, what exactly auditors are looking for, common causes of billing errors, and the importance of modifiers with coding.
4. Brush up on Medicare coding, compliance & documentation.
It’s pretty easy to feel befuddled by everything that goes into Medicare coding, compliance and documentations.
Which is why sometimes the best thing to do is turn to the experts. This previously recorded webinar, hosted by Dr. Marty Kotlar, discusses this topic at length. For starters, he details the guidelines on chiropractic, subluxation according to Medicare.
In addition, you’ll learn more about:
- The Medicare P.A.R.T. evaluation
- Initial and subsequent visit documentation requirements
- The new Medicare MIPS program
- ICD-10 & Medicare
- The ABN form
- Participating vs. non-participating
To view this informative session, click here.
5. Strategize your documentation, coding and compliance.
While there are numerous elements that make up a successful practice, keeping your revenue up and consistent plays a huge part.
But that can be quite the challenge, given the current state of high deductibles and decreased reimbursements.
Presented by Mario Fucinari, DC, CCSP, CPCO, MCS-P, this previously recorded webinar will guide doctors and staff through strategies of documentation and coding that meet the various regulations, requirements and complexities of practice in the 21st century.
Learn how to avoid governmental and disciplinary scrutiny, avoid missed revenue, and maintain billing and coding integrity.
Tired of keeping up with constant coding changes? Let ACOM Health manage your insurance billing and collections. Request a Consultation.