HCPro, JustCoding Outpatient - 2020 Issue 42 (November)
Untangle controversial MPFS proposals: E/M payment cuts and telehealth billing restrictions
November 3rd, 2020
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Article Overview
This article reviews stakeholder प्रतिक्रियons to the 2021 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule and highlights the policy issues drawing the most attention in medical practices. It discusses broad themes affecting physician payment, telehealth access, and outpatient E/M documentation changes, with emphasis on why these proposals matter as practices prepare for implementation and possible rule changes. The piece is aimed at coding, billing, compliance, and practice management professionals following CMS payment policy.
Why This Topic Matters
The proposed MPFS changes could affect reimbursement, documentation workflows, telehealth operations, and staff training timelines for many physician practices. Understanding the policy landscape helps organizations prepare for potential operational and financial impacts.
Article Sections
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Audio-only E/M services
This section covers public comments on telephone-based evaluation and management services and the broader payment policy debate surrounding them. It also discusses stakeholder concerns about ongoing coverage and reimbursement trends.
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E/M office visit changes
This section addresses proposed changes to outpatient and office evaluation and management documentation and level selection. It focuses on the implementation timeline and the operational impact on practices and staff preparation.
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Telehealth updates
This section summarizes public comment themes about telehealth access and billing flexibility during and after the public health emergency. It also covers concerns about geographic and originating site restrictions.
What You Will Learn
- The main policy themes in public comments on the 2021 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule
- How stakeholders are responding to proposed changes affecting audio-only evaluation and management services
- What kinds of office visit documentation changes are being monitored for implementation
- Which telehealth access and billing issues are drawing comment from medical groups and associations
- Why the proposed rule could affect practice operations, workflow, and training
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Billing specialists
- Compliance staff
- Practice managers
- Physician office administrators
- Revenue cycle professionals
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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