Industry Notes: New CMS-1500 Requires Letters, Not Numbers, for Dx Pointer

Why This Topic Matters

It helps readers recognize a common claim-form reporting change and stay aware of pending HIPAA audit activity that may affect compliance planning.

Article Sections

1. CMS-1500 form update and diagnosis pointer reporting

   This section summarizes the updated claim form format and the general issue that prompted confusion among coders. It also references guidance from a Medicare Part B MAC about how diagnosis references are reported on the form.

2. HHS HIPAA pre-audit survey and audit program activity

   This section outlines the HHS announcement about a survey intended to assess covered entities and business associates for audit suitability. It also notes the broader compliance context and timing discussed in the article.