“I am part of a recovery audit from CMS for using a modifier 59. Cotiviti Healthcare has been hired by CMS to review my use of modifier 59. They stated that my operative report supports documented Charcot reconstruction and the use of application of external fixator (CPT 20692) but modifier 59 was inappropriately used since both procedures were performed at the same session. Should I have used a different modifier in this situation? Is application of an external fixator (CPT 20692) not considered a separate procedure if it is performed at the same session as other reconstruction procedures?"
The US Government has issued warnings regarding Russian hackers. Internationally the government has been working to stop these attacks including a major hub that sold stolen medical information. Understand how these risks affect your office and what we can do to prevent future attacks.
“In the summer of 2021, when the delta variant was near its peak, I attempted a house call visit to review laboratory results and discuss treatment options. The family of the elderly patient did not want anyone in the house and recommended leaving the results and instructions at the front door. Lab results, my interpretation of the results, prescription and instructions were left at the front door as instructed. This, of course, required driving to the patient’s residence to accomplish this. How could this scenario be billed to Medicare?”
