Steer clear of shared consultations for Medicare

Why This Topic Matters

Medicare scrutiny of consultation documentation can affect whether a service is payable and how it should be supported in the record. Understanding the boundaries around shared services helps practices reduce billing errors and align documentation with Medicare expectations.

Article Sections

1. Consultation documentation and Medicare expectations

   Overview of Medicare’s concerns about consultation documentation and the participation of non-physician practitioners. The section discusses general expectations for physician involvement and points to policy resources.

2. Resources

   Links and references to Medicare and contractor guidance materials relevant to consultation billing and shared services.

3. Shared visits: Rules differ based on site of service

   High-level summary of how Medicare’s shared or split evaluation and management visit rules vary by care setting. The section distinguishes office and hospital situations.