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Articles by From the College

Rheumatology Coding Corner Year-End Quiz Answers

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Take the challenge. D—As of January 2015, there are three new codes added to the arthrocentesis codes of 20600–20611. The new codes, 20604, 20606 and 20611, should be reported when the procedure is performed with ultrasound guidance and CPT 76942 should not be billed separately. The three new codes are defined as: 20604—Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or…

New Physician Payment Reforms Highlight Need for Quality Coding, Accurate Documentation

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To be an effective practice owner, it is necessary to understand the financial circumstances and environment of the practice’s operation. Well-managed practices prevent the loss of time and money. Therefore, to improve productivity and operating efficiencies, you need to have a basic understanding of billing and payment initiatives that will impact the practice’s bottom line….

The ACR’s Affiliate Society Council Growth Boosted by Increase in State Societies

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The ACR’s Affiliate Society Council (ASC) membership has grown from 34 states to 40 since 2015. The growth of the Council is mainly attributed to newly formed state societies, as well as existing state societies focusing on orienting themselves for advocacy on behalf of rheumatologists and their patients. Increased participation by state societies helps support…

Rheumatology Coding Corner Year-End Quiz Questions

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A 38-year-old female patient returns to the practice for the second of three hyaluronate sodium injections of the left knee. The patient states the pain is somewhat better after her last injection. Her weight is 165 lbs., her height is 5 feet 6 inches, and her blood pressure is 120/81. After discussing the risks of…

Rheumatology Research Foundation Recognizes Donors of Merit

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On Nov. 12, nearly 150 supporters of the Rheumatology Research Foundation gathered at the St. Regis Washington, D.C., for the Donors of Merit recognition dinner. This annual event honors those who contributed to the Foundation throughout the year. Foundation President Eric Matteson, MD, MPH, applauded leaders who have played an essential role in the Foundation’s success….

4 Steps to a More Efficient Healthcare Revenue Cycle in a Physician Practice

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As the year draws to a close, it is vital to pay close attention to your practice’s revenue cycle to maintain an operational and financially healthy business. Operational aspects should be a top priority, with careful monitoring as they relate to efficiency in receivables and denials management. Healthcare revenue cycle management is the strategy that…

Update on Legislation, Notification Rules Concerning the Substitution of Interchangeable Biologic Drugs

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Although the FDA has not yet awarded the title of interchangeable to any biosimilar, legislation that governs their substitution will continue to be a dominant state issue in 2017. Since 2013, 24 states and Puerto Rico have passed legislation regarding interchangeable biologics. As many as 15 states will have biosimilar-related legislation introduced by coalitions in…

Rheumatology Coding Corner Answer: Joint Injection with Ultrasound Guidance, No Office Visit

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Take the challenge. CPT: 20611-RT, J1040, 89060 ICD-10: M17.11 Coding Rationale Keep in mind, no evaluation and management services are billed because there wasn’t a separate and/or significant reason, other than the knee injection, addressed during the visit. Note: Although the injection was performed via ultrasound guidance, CPT code 76942 should not be billed with…