Eyeing the future: E/M will disrupt, the PHE will end, telehealth will stay

Why This Topic Matters

The topics covered could affect documentation workflows, coding education, payer alignment, and access to telehealth services. For practices that bill E/M services or rely on Medicare policy changes, understanding the scope of expected updates helps with planning and training.

Article Sections

1. Prediction: The E/M guideline revisions for office visit codes will sow confusion

   Discusses anticipated operational challenges tied to the 2021 office visit documentation updates, including time-based reporting and medical decision-making changes. It also addresses readiness concerns and possible payer variability.

2. Prediction: All E/M codes will get revised in 2021

   Covers expectations that broader evaluation and management coding changes may extend beyond office visits. The section focuses on the possible timeline and scope of future revisions.

3. Prediction: This is not the year for the long-anticipated breakthrough on X modifiers

   Reviews the status of X modifier guidance and the likelihood of additional CMS action. It also references the role of national coding policy materials in shaping current understanding.

4. Prediction: The public health emergency (PHE) will end in 2021

   Explores expectations around the end of the public health emergency and how that may affect broader health care operations. The discussion includes vaccine rollout, access issues, and the possibility of some flexibilities continuing.

5. Prediction: Congress will finally loosen up on telehealth

   Examines the future of telehealth policy after the pandemic-era expansion. The section also touches on related remote-service options and Medicare's efforts to support similar care models.