decisionhealth Newsletters, Answer Books - 2009 Issue 3 (March)
Physician Practice Model Compliance Plan / Specific Risk Areas / Coding and Billing
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Article Overview
This article explains why coding and billing compliance belongs in a physician practice compliance plan and outlines broad risk areas that are frequently reviewed in audits and investigations. It discusses general standards for documentation-based billing, use of official coding guidance, and the role of practice policies in reducing claim errors. The content is aimed at physicians, coders, billers, compliance staff, and practice administrators who need a non-technical overview of billing integrity issues.
Why This Topic Matters
Coding and billing errors can create compliance exposure, trigger audits, and lead to payment problems for physician practices. Understanding the major risk areas helps practices build policies that support accurate claims and documentation.
Article Sections
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Specific risk areas in coding and billing
This section outlines common categories of billing and coding risk identified in compliance reviews. It focuses on the types of practice behaviors that are often scrutinized by auditors and enforcement agencies.
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Standards and procedures for proper coding
This section discusses the need for practice standards that align with applicable reimbursement rules and official coding guidance. It also addresses documentation-based coding and the importance of internal review processes.
What You Will Learn
- Why coding and billing risk areas are emphasized in compliance programs
- How general billing and coding problems are grouped for compliance review
- Why documentation supports accurate claim submission
- How official coding guidance and internal policies relate to practice compliance
- Why rejected-claim review can be part of a practice’s error-reduction process
Who Should Read This
- Physicians
- Medical coders
- Medical billers
- Practice administrators
- Compliance officers
- Healthcare office managers
Modifiers Discussed
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