decisionhealth Newsletters, Part B News - 2006 Issue 11 (November)
Get set to collect new deductible, hear about high premiums
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Article Overview
This article explains upcoming Medicare Part B patient financial changes for 2007, including the annual deductible increase and the introduction of income-related premium amounts. It is relevant for medical billing staff, office managers, and practices that collect patient responsibility amounts from Medicare beneficiaries. The discussion also touches on which services are exempt from the deductible and the general operational issues practices may face when determining patient collections and refunds.
Why This Topic Matters
These Medicare changes affect front-end collections, patient communication, refund handling, and beneficiary billing workflows. Practices that bill Medicare need to understand the broad policy changes so they can prepare staff and update collection processes.
Article Sections
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Medicare deductible changes for 2007
Overview of the annual Medicare deductible update for 2007 and the related impact on patient collections. Includes general discussion of how the deductible is applied in practice and mentions service categories that are exempt.
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Expect questions about high premiums
Discussion of the new income-related Part B premium structure and why some beneficiaries may see higher monthly premiums. Presents the broad premium tiers and the policy change driving them.
What You Will Learn
- How the Medicare Part B deductible changed for 2007
- Why deductible collection timing can affect patient billing workflows
- That some Medicare screening services are treated differently for deductible purposes
- How income-related Medicare Part B premiums were introduced
- Which broad beneficiary income groups are affected by the premium changes
Who Should Read This
- Medical office managers
- Billing staff
- Revenue cycle staff
- Medicare billing specialists
- Practice administrators
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