Industry Notes

Why This Topic Matters

The update highlights areas where billing, reporting, and refund practices can create compliance exposure, while also pointing readers to government priorities and contractor guidance that may affect day-to-day revenue cycle operations.

Article Sections

1. OIG Cites ‘Fiscal Challenges’ for Delayed 2014 Work Plan Release

   Discusses the timing of the OIG’s upcoming work plan and the agency’s stated reason for the delay. It also references several oversight topics included in the prior year’s plan.

2. Overbilling Kyphoplasty Leads to $388,000 Settlement for One Doctor

   Summarizes a settlement involving alleged Medicare overbilling tied to a spinal procedure. The section frames the issue as a coding and reimbursement compliance concern for providers performing the service.

3. Lesson From Recent $750,000 Case: Repay Overpayments As Soon As Possible

   Reviews a case involving delayed repayment after an overpayment was identified. It highlights the compliance significance of promptly addressing known refund obligations.

4. Senior Medicare Patrol Smaller in Numbers, But Still Producing Results

   Describes a report on the scale and activity of Senior Medicare Patrol projects. The section notes education and enforcement support efforts tied to Medicare fraud awareness.

5. Cancel — Don’t Resubmit — RAPs With Errors

   Provides contractor-issued guidance related to handling errors in home health billing submissions. It focuses on the administrative process for correcting affected claims forms.