AAOS Now, March 2015
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Modifier 59 Revisited
In August 2014, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) identified modifier 59 as the most widely used modifier, noting that providers can use it to indicate that a code represents a service that is separate and distinct from another service with which it would usually be considered to be bundled. It also introduced a subset of “X” modifiers for modifier 59, but provided few specifics on the appropriate use of these modifiers.
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New AAOS Member Offering
Identity Theft and Cyber-Security Protection from MetLife Defender An identity is stolen every 3 seconds in the United States. Every time you go online to pay bills, shop, or connect with friends and family, you may be putting your personal data at risk. The American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) is pleased to offer members MetLife DefenderSM, a proactive, comprehensive service to protect against a range of identity theft and other cyber risks.
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Not Yet Ready for Stage 2 Meaningful Use?
No one said that achieving meaningful use of electronic health records (EHR) would be easy. But few believed it would be as difficult and complicated as it’s become. Recognizing this, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has established a hardship exception. It’s not an “out,” but it does allow providers more time to meet the meaningful use requirements. Payment adjustments to Medicare-eligible professionals (EPs) began on January 1, 2015.
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Don’t Count on ICD-10 Delay
Based on the results of a recent report by the Government Accounting Office (GAO) and a hearing by the House Energy and Commerce subcommittee on Health, physicians should not expect another delay in the requirement to implement the ICD-10 diagnostic coding system on Oct. 1, 2015.
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Take the TEAM Approach to ICD-10 Implementation
CD-10 goes into effect on Oct. 1, 2015. To ensure that your practice is ready for the transition, take the TEAM approach! Test Contact software vendors and clearinghouses to make sure that they are ready for the transition. Inquire about testing and steps your practice needs to take to ensure successful claims submissions. This will help avoid any delays in reimbursement. Educate It is not too early to begin educating staff on ICD-10 coding.
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Employment Contracts for Orthopaedic Surgeons
John Gramer With rising hospital employment of physicians, unfolding reform policies, and tightening reimbursement, medical practices need actionable data that practice managers and surgeons can use to help find, create, and promote more beneficial practice opportunities. A survey conducted by Cejka Search reflects how orthopaedic surgeons feel about hospital employment, including their expectations of benefits, incentives, and contract terms.