Missing ABNs mean missed payments; 6 tips for getting them done right

Why This Topic Matters

ABN handling affects whether practices can shift financial responsibility appropriately when Medicare does not pay for a service. Understanding the workflow helps billing teams support documentation, appeals, and patient communication.

Article Sections

1. Billing

   Introduces the article’s focus on Medicare billing workflows related to ABNs and denied claims.

2. Pull the LCDs, NCDs in advance

   Discusses reviewing coverage guidance ahead of time and using it to identify services that may require ABNs.

3. Don’t miss covered services

   Covers the need to look for circumstances where services may still be covered based on the clinical context and documentation.

4. Issue ABNs for frequency-limited tests

   Addresses frequency-limited services and the operational challenge of determining when an ABN may be needed.

5. Use template for correct ABN completion

   Reviews form-completion workflow and internal checks used to reduce incomplete ABNs.

6. Get the patient to sign

   Discusses patient communication approaches used to obtain signatures before services are rendered.

7. If they won’t sign

   Describes documentation and workflow considerations when a patient refuses to sign the ABN.