Medicare Compliance & Reimbursement - 2009 Issue 35
REIMBURSEMENT: 7 Tips Help You Avoid Computer Claim Casualties
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Article Overview
This article covers how billing teams can monitor claims, follow up on unpaid or denied items, and escalate problems when electronic processing appears to be interrupted by a payer or intermediary system issue. It is aimed at practice managers, billers, and coders who work with claim status, reimbursement follow-up, and payer communications. The guidance focuses on general workflow checkpoints, payer and contractor contacts, and when to use carrier websites or CMS regional offices for further action.
Why This Topic Matters
Processing glitches can create delayed payment, denials, or incomplete claim handling that may go unnoticed without active follow-up. The article is relevant to organizations that need to protect cash flow and verify whether claims were received, processed, reprocessed, or improperly adjusted.
Article Sections
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Monitoring EOBs and Accounts Receivable
This section discusses routine review points used to detect payment problems and claim processing irregularities. It emphasizes tracking claim outcomes and unpaid balances at a broad operational level.
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Following Up with MACs and Payers
This section covers communication with Medicare Administrative Contractors and other payers after a suspected processing problem. It focuses on confirming whether claims were received and whether follow-up actions have occurred.
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Using Timelines and Resubmission Checks
This section addresses the importance of timing when claims are transmitted, received, or returned for further handling. It also covers reviewing whether a resubmitted claim may encounter another processing delay.
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Carrier Websites and CMS Regional Offices
This section describes using online payer resources and, when needed, contacting CMS regional offices for unresolved claim handling concerns. It highlights escalation pathways outside routine billing follow-up.
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Communication Approach
This section focuses on maintaining persistent and organized communication when working through claim issues. It emphasizes obtaining complete information before ending a payer conversation.
What You Will Learn
- How practices can monitor claim status and payment activity for signs of processing problems.
- What types of follow-up steps are commonly used when claims appear to be delayed or mishandled.
- How payer websites and CMS offices may fit into an escalation workflow.
- Why timing and persistence matter in revenue-cycle follow-up.
Who Should Read This
- Medical billers
- Practice managers
- Revenue cycle staff
- Coding and reimbursement professionals
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