Don't Leave Subsequent-Care Payment on the Table

Why This Topic Matters

The article matters because incomplete documentation can lead to lower-level reporting and missed reimbursement for services provided away from the emergency department. It also highlights the importance of distinguishing separate encounters and understanding the documentation elements tied to inpatient subsequent-care reporting.

Article Sections

1. Beef up paper trail to secure ED reimbursement

   Introduces the reimbursement and documentation issue for emergency department physicians who provide care to hospitalized patients. Explains the general problem of underdocumentation and why subsequent-care reporting may be relevant.

2. Write It to Earn It

   Discusses the documentation challenge of capturing additional evaluation and management work performed outside the ED. Includes commentary on how sparse notes can affect reimbursement opportunities.

3. Specify 2 of 3 E/M Components

   Reviews the broad documentation components associated with subsequent hospital care reporting. Compares the component structure for these services with emergency department evaluation and management services.

4. Use -59 for Separate Care

   Covers separate same-day evaluations and the use of a modifier to distinguish distinct services. Also references payer policy review and documentation submission considerations.

5. Count 2 to 7 Body Systems

   Discusses exam documentation depth in the context of subsequent-care reporting. Focuses on the general relationship between body areas or organ systems and exam level.