Update your flu vaccine roadmap with a dozen codes for 2018-2019 season

Why This Topic Matters

Seasonal flu vaccine coding changes affect claim accuracy, payment, inventory planning, and reporting workflows. This article helps readers understand the scope of CMS-related updates and the practical issues that practices consider when preparing for flu season.

Article Sections

1. Seasonal CMS flu vaccine update

   Introduces the 2018-2019 flu season update and the general scope of CMS vaccine coverage changes. It frames the article around reporting-period preparation and claim readiness.

2. Eligible vaccine list changes

   Summarizes changes to the set of flu vaccine codes discussed for the season and notes relative payment trends across the remaining vaccines. It also mentions a new seasonal code addition to claim systems.

3. Tips to stock vaccines

   Describes how practices plan vaccine purchasing, inventory, and distribution for flu season. It includes examples of operational considerations from medical groups and clinics.

4. Walk patients in

   Covers patient-facing flu clinic operations and outreach strategies used to increase vaccination volume. It discusses walk-in clinic setup and scheduling approaches.

5. Deal direct?

   Addresses purchasing arrangements, supplier negotiations, and inventory management options for practices. It compares larger-group purchasing power with alternative sourcing approaches.

6. 3 flu shot tips

   Provides broad reminders about administration coding, claim accuracy, coverage-related cost sharing, and registry or quality reporting. It connects flu vaccination work with Medicare and quality program reporting.