Compliance: Be Careful When You Code Concurrent Care

Why This Topic Matters

Concurrent care claims can be scrutinized if the services appear overlapping or insufficiently documented. Understanding the broad compliance and coding issues helps reduce denials and supports accurate claim submission.

Article Sections

1. Ensure the Care Is 'Concurrent,' not 'Duplicative'

   Introduces the distinction between concurrent and duplicative care and discusses the general criteria used to evaluate whether multiple physicians are involved appropriately.

2. When a Patient Has Multiple Issues, Focus on Diagnosis Codes

   Covers a scenario involving more than one physician, multiple conditions, and separate E/M services, with attention to how diagnosis reporting relates to the encounter.

3. Remember, Concurrent Can Feature Only 1 Diagnosis

   Discusses the possibility that multiple physicians may report the same diagnosis in concurrent care situations and the broader reporting implications.

4. Bolster Concurrent Claims with Solid Notes

   Explains the importance of clear clinical documentation when supporting concurrent care claims and responding to payer review.