Getting deserved reimbursement is
always a cause of concern, but to make sure that anesthesia groups
collect every penny that they are entitled to have been of utmost importance
lately. This can be accomplished if anesthesia groups ensure to follow basic
measures to overcome or eradicate common documentation as well as medical billing and coding information errors. To reduce errors, a through and updated understanding of anesthesiology
coding is required, coupled with, a working knowledge of anatomy and
transparent communication between coders and physicians. The revenue for
anesthesiology coding can be easily strengthened by developing a process where
coders can keep track with physicians on typical case questions and get
accurate feedback related to incomplete
or inaccurate documentation.
Inadequate detail and
transparency about the nature and location of the underlying surgical procedure
results in frequent CPT under-coding errors affecting anesthesia reimbursement.
For instance:
In abdominal cavity, although
location is important for surgical procedures, if the procedure is in
the lower abdomen, it is worth 6
units. But if it is in the upper abdomen, it is worth 7 units. Similarly, for
epigastric hernia repair if the hernia is strangulated and involves the
intestines the procedure is worth 7 base units otherwise it is 4 base units.
As a result of these CPT
anesthesiology coding errors, anesthesia groups have missed
out on significant dollars. But errors like these cannot be allowed at a time
when there is a tough economic environment. Thus, it’s essential to provide CEU
opportunities to coders and physicians on a regular basis. This will help
coders get insight on basic codes and reimbursement guidelines associated with
a wide range of specific surgical procedures to overcome errors and boost
anesthesiology coding. Regular audits will be essential to keep a check on
medical billing and coding information thereby helping and encouraging both
coders and physicians to identify the areas of weakness and work upon it. This
process will ensure that reimbursement is maximized by reducing anesthesiology
coding errors and denials.
