decisionhealth Newsletters, Part B News - 2015 Issue 3 (March)
MACs: You can bill some charges on translation service — but follow the rules
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Article Overview
This article explains how some Medicare Part B contractors have addressed billing when translation or interpretation services lengthen a patient encounter. It is aimed at clinicians, billing staff, and compliance professionals who need a broad understanding of contractor guidance, documentation considerations, and legal cautions related to interpreter use.
Why This Topic Matters
The topic affects how practices document and bill time-based services when an interpreter is needed, while also highlighting compliance and disability-access concerns that may limit what can be charged.
Article Sections
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Ask Part B News
A reader question is introduced and the article frames the issue as a Medicare Part B billing and interpretation-service topic.
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Contractor guidance on additional billing
The article summarizes guidance from Medicare contractors and discusses the types of claims or add-on billing concepts that have been mentioned in connection with interpreter-related time.
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Documentation and compliance cautions
The article addresses documentation considerations for interpreted encounters and reviews legal and compliance concerns raised by attorneys and consultants.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames Medicare Part B billing issues involving interpretation services
- Which general types of contractor guidance are discussed
- What documentation themes are emphasized for encounters with interpreters
- What compliance concerns are raised about charging for accommodation-related services
Who Should Read This
- Medicare Part B providers
- Medical coders
- Billing staff
- Compliance officers
- Practice managers
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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