Compliance: OIG Finds 63-Percent Error Rate on Facet Joint Injections -- Here's How to Avoid Problems

Why This Topic Matters

Facet joint injection claims were found to have a high error rate in the cited Medicare audit, making accurate reporting important for compliance and payment integrity. The article helps readers understand the broad areas where claims were found to fail review so they can assess whether their own billing processes need attention.

Article Sections

1. Hint: Bilateral injection errors accounted for scores of issues

   Introduces the compliance topic and summarizes the audit findings that motivated the article. It frames the discussion around common reporting problems affecting facet joint injection claims.

2. Add-Ons Apply to Extra Levels

   Discusses reporting for facet joint injection services by spinal region and additional levels. It also addresses terminology and documentation concepts related to the procedure.

3. Keep Modifier 50 at Hand

   Covers bilateral procedure reporting concerns and the types of errors identified in the audit. It also presents general compliance themes tied to underpayment and documentation accuracy.