Exclusive: ACR Convergence 2024| Focus Rheums

An official publication of the ACR and the ARP serving rheumatologists and rheumatology professionals

Billing/Coding

Coding Corner – New Patient vs. Established Patient Quiz

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New Patient vs. Established Patient Quiz 1. A 65-year-old female patient comes to see Dr. Raven at her new practice. The last time this patient saw Dr. Raven was eight weeks ago at her old practice. What type of patient visit is this? Established New 2. Dr. Smith joins a new practice and many of…

Coding Corner Answer – New Patient vs. Established Patient Quiz

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Take the challenge… 1. A: Established. Even though Dr. Raven is now practicing at a new location, the patient is considered an established patient because she received professional services from Dr. Raven within the past three years. The CPT manual defines a new patient as “one who has not received any professional services from the…

Time Is Important Factor in E/M Coding

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It is not unusual for rheumatologists to spend significant time during an office visit reviewing new and/or existing problems, modifying medications, counseling, and coordinating care, but is this additional time reimbursable?

Dos and Don’ts of Verifying Insurance Benefits

Melesia Tillman, CPC-I, CRHC, CHA  |  

Not verifying insurance benefits prior to rendering service can result in nonpayment, which affects your bottom line. Because this is a costly mistake that can be avoided, make it routine to verify eligibility prior to every patient visit.