Get ready for 2008 with this 10-point checklist

Why This Topic Matters

Year-end readiness affects whether a practice is up to date with annual code set changes, payer policy resources, and compliance checks before the new year begins. The article helps billing and coding teams identify the broad administrative and reference areas they should review to reduce disruption, denials, and compliance risk.

Article Sections

1. New procedure and supply codes

   Introduces the annual review of updated procedure and supply code resources and the timing of implementation for the new year. It also points readers to sources for current code set releases.

2. ICD-9 codes and guidelines

   Covers the yearly diagnosis code update cycle and related guideline revisions. The section emphasizes checking official sources for the most current materials.

3. Fee schedules

   Discusses the Medicare physician fee schedule as part of annual planning and references the supporting publication timeline. It frames the fee schedule as a key resource for the upcoming year.

4. Relative Value File

   Describes a Medicare resource used to review code-level billing information after the fee schedule is released. The section addresses the kind of practice management details this file contains.

5. CCI policy updates

   Highlights the annual update cycle for national Correct Coding Initiative policy materials. It emphasizes obtaining the most current reference manual.

6. Government audit plans

   Reviews federal oversight resources that outline audit priorities and compliance concerns for the coming year. The section also mentions related enforcement and improper payment materials.

7. Check the exclusion list

   Focuses on exclusion-screening as part of compliance preparation. It points to the need to verify business relationships against the applicable federal list.

8. Gastro coding tools

   Mentions specialty-specific coding reference materials aimed at gastroenterology practices. This section is oriented toward practice support tools rather than policy changes.

9. Set up your coding and billing staff education plans for 2008

   Encourages planning for staff training, conferences, and specialty education resources in the coming year. The section ties education planning to billing accuracy and compliance readiness.