Implement time, location lessons for FTF and telehealth visits: OIG audit

Why This Topic Matters

It helps practices evaluate whether their telehealth and face-to-face E/M documentation supports accurate billing and stands up to audit scrutiny as telehealth rules continue to evolve.

Article Sections

1. Audit overview and scope

   Summarizes the OIG review of telehealth evaluation and management claims during the early months of the COVID-19 public health emergency. Explains the general context for the audit and the type of services reviewed.

2. Time-based services

   Discusses documentation issues related to time-based reporting across E/M encounters. Describes the general guidance concerns raised by the audit.

3. Telehealth chart documentation checks

   Reviews several documentation elements practices should verify in telehealth records. Covers encounter type, platform documentation, and patient location at a broad level.

4. Policy outlook and audit risk

   Notes upcoming and recent telehealth policy developments and the continuing likelihood of audit review. Places the article’s compliance themes in a broader regulatory context.