April’s Coding Challenge
Medicare Switch to ASP Pricing Reduces Part B Spending
The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) reported to Congress in January that Medicare’s switch to a payment method known as ASP, or Average Sale Price, has reduced spending on drugs in the Medicare Part B program. This system reflects actual market spending, rather than wholesale prices.
National Provider Identifier System Becomes Mandatory Next Month
On May 23 it will be mandatory to use your National Provider Identifier (NPI) number when billing the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Currently, you can use your PIN alone, your PIN and the new NPI, or the NPI alone—but as of May 23, only the NPI number will be accepted.
Coding Corner Question
March’s Coding Challenge
Coding Corner Answer
February’s Coding Answer
Coding Changes for 2007
Note these CPT and Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) code changes…
Coding Corner Question
February Coding Scenario
Coding Corner Answer
November’s Coding Answer
Coding Corner Question
January Coding Scenario
Medicare D-lemmas
Rheumatologists and patients report mixed experiences with the new prescription drug benefit