Use denial rates from 2011’s psych codes to map 2013 billing

The following graph illustrates the denial rates for 2011 psychotherapy codes. Even though those codes have been deleted, you can use the CMS claims data and Part B News’ analysis to get an idea of what to expect when using the new 2013 codes (see crosswalk, below and related story). For most services, denial rates were low — under 10% — but providers struggled most when billing interactive therapy (90810) and the initial psychiatric exam (90802). And while psychologists, clinical social workers and psychiatrists billed these codes the most, primary care providers, such as family practitioners, suffered overall denial rates above 30%.