Question: I have recently received a memorandum from my carrier stating that I should now use the 739 series ICD-9 codes as opposed to the 839 series. Is this a new CMS policy, and if so, will it have any affect on reimbursement of CMT procedures? Answer: There is no new CMS policy on this [...]
Question: Is there a difference between modality and therapy? Answer: Short answer, YES Modalities are defined as "Any physical agent applied to produce therapeutic changes to biologic tissues; includes but not limited to thermal, acoustic, light, mechanical, or electric energy." They can be attended OR non-attended. The definition of modalities was added to CPT 1995 [...]
I often receive questions about how much to charge for medical records. Copy fees vary by state. You can find a list of the fees by state here. You will have to scroll a little, but should be able to find what you're looking for.
Question: I am getting denied for 97140 when I bill it with an adjustment. What can I do? Answer: When billing 97140 with an adjustment, you will first have to use the modifier -59 which indicates to the insurance company that this service (97140) was done on a separate region of the body other than [...]
Question: We would like to start billing for report of findings using the proper documentation. We would also like to go through the past year or so and bill for all of the previous reports as well. How legal is this and is there an expiration on how far back I can bill? Answer: “Report [...]
Question: Is there a code for laser light therapy? Answer: There is no accurate and current CPT code for "laser" treatment, providers should use the S8948 HCPCS code for "Application of a modality (requiring constant provider attendance) to one or more areas; low level laser; each 15 minutes." This is our first choice and recommendation. [...]