PBN’s 2021 predictions: PHE extensions, telehealth inertia led to missed calls

Why This Topic Matters

The article gives a high-level retrospective on major Medicare and healthcare policy changes that affected billing, coverage, and compliance during 2021. It helps readers understand which policy shifts progressed, stalled, or remained uncertain, especially in areas that influence practice operations and reimbursement.

Article Sections

1. 2021 predictions

   Introduces the year-end review format and frames the article as an assessment of previously made predictions.

2. E/M guideline revisions and office visit coding

   Discusses the rollout of revised office visit documentation standards and the initial operational impact on practices.

3. Public health emergency and telehealth policy

   Reviews predictions tied to the public health emergency and the status of congressional action affecting telehealth flexibilities.

4. Broader E/M code revisions and CPT updates

   Covers anticipated changes to additional E/M code families and related CPT Editorial Panel activity.

5. Value-based care models and Medicare program direction

   Summarizes developments affecting Medicare innovation models and participation in value-based programs.

6. Medicare for All and broader coverage reform

   Addresses the status of Medicare for All proposals and related Affordable Care Act policy developments.

7. Fraud oversight, risk adjustment, ransomware, and drug pricing

   Reviews attention to Medicare Advantage oversight, cybersecurity threats, and drug pricing policy efforts.