The Role of HIPAA-Compliant Cloud Computing in Securing Healthcare Data: HIPAA-compliant cloud computing significantly mitigates security, privacy, and legal risks for healthcare organizations. Cloud computing is becoming increasingly popular in healthcare. As organizations seek scalable and accessible IT solutions, cloud vendors are providing the tools. However, ensuring HIPAA compliance is essential when using cloud services. […]
The prior authorization burdens associated with the process have long been a source of frustration for healthcare providers and patients. These burdens can impede optimal care by creating delays in treatment and increasing administrative tasks. However, recent legislative changes and insurer policies aim to alleviate these concerns and streamline the prior authorization process. A radiation […]
AI-driven coding automation can save your practice countless hours each week, allowing physicians and staff to focus on higher-value tasks. This innovative technology is set to revolutionize the coding process entirely. In the future, it’s likely the healthcare industry will look back and wonder, “How did we ever manage coding without AI?” Now, let’s dive […]
Using surgery modifiers to accurately represent the role of assistant surgeons has become increasingly important over the past three decades. Initially, a simple mention of the assistant surgeon’s name in the operative note header sufficed. However, as the healthcare landscape evolved, payers began demanding more granular details about the assistant surgeon’s role and contributions to […]
The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have proposed new 2025 Medicare payment policies for hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) that aim to increase access to care and advance health equity. These policies are outlined in the 2025 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System […]
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced plans to continue allowing certain telehealth flexibilities beyond the end of 2024. These changes are part of their proposed rules for Medicare payments in 2025. While most temporary telehealth rules from the COVID-19 pandemic are set to expire, CMS wants to keep some in place. […]
Modifier 50 is used to indicate that a procedure or service was performed on both sides of the body during the same operative session. It’s essential to use this modifier correctly to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement. Key points for appropriate use: Bilateral Procedures: The procedure must be performed on identical, opposing structures (e.g., eyes, […]
Medicare Advantage (MA) has become a dominant force in the Medicare landscape, accounting for over 54% of overall Medicare enrollment. This trend is expected to continue, with penetration rates projected to reach 64% by 2033. However, the future of the Medicare Advantage market is not without its challenges. The Slowdown Begins While MA has experienced […]
With the proliferation of quality measures in value-based contracts, many primary care physicians feel overwhelmed and set up to fail. Research conducted at the healthcare system shows that these clinicians are inundated with an excessive number of quality metrics, often leading to administrative burdens and reduced patient care. One of the primary criticisms of value-based […]
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced updates to the Q4 HCPCS Level II code, effective October 1, 2024. These changes include: 58 new codes 10 codes with updated descriptions 6 discontinued codes Key Changes: New codes for medical and surgical supplies, outpatient procedures, durable medical equipment, and orthotic procedures. Replacement code […]