Part B News briefs

Why This Topic Matters

The items in this brief can affect claim handling, readiness for ICD-10 transition activities, and patient privacy notice compliance. Readers who manage Medicare billing or office compliance may want to monitor the developments highlighted here.

Article Sections

1. Medicare policy discussion for cerumen removal

   A short update on provider advocacy and CMS policy activity involving Medicare billing practices for a common outpatient service. The section also notes a related modifier usage issue mentioned in the news brief.

2. CMS end-to-end ICD-10 testing update

   A summary of CMS testing plans for a limited provider group and how the testing relates to broader ICD-10 implementation readiness. The section references additional system testing activities and timing discussed by CMS.

3. Spanish model Notice of Privacy Practices

   An update on availability of OCR privacy notice materials in multiple formats, including a Spanish version. The section also references the broader HIPAA notice update context.