Commonly Asked Coding Questions

Sarah Wiskerchen, MBA, CPC

A: Although the four –X{EPSU} modifiers were initiated by CMS, they have also been part of the Common Procedural Terminology (CPT) manual since 2015. These four modifiers—XE, XS, XP, and XU—are used in lieu of modifier 59. The modifiers are commonly called –X{EPSU} modifiers for separate Encounter, Structure, Practitioner, and Unusual non-overlapping service referenced in the EPSU acronym. The latest CMS directives about using the –X{EPSU} modifiers were issued last year (2015).

Updating the Case for POPTS

Cary B. Edgar, JD; Michael Baer, MSPT

Since 2012, several studies have been published showing that physical therapy (PT) provided within a physician practice may result in lower utilization and costs than PT provided in private therapy practices. Data from these studies support the claims that physician-owned physical therapy services (POPTS) do not result in overuse or excessive costs. GAO study At the request of Congress, the U.S.

Liability Coverage in a Changing Healthcare Environment

Michael R. Marks, MD, MBA

In the first article of this two-part series on liability management (see "Liability Management 101," AAOS Now, August 2016), I spoke with David Burke, director of Smith Brothers Insurance Healthcare Division, about what orthopaedic surgeons can do to protect themselves and their practices today and into the future. Specifically, we addressed directors & officers insurance, employment practice liability insurance, and fiduciary liability insurance.

Upcoming Practice Management Articles in AAOS Now

Coding for Complications Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR)—Perils of Failure December: Advancing Care Information The Medicare and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA)/Quality Payment Program Ambulatory Surgical Centers/Specialty Hospitals

Upcoming Webinars

Oct. 17, 2016 Moderator: Nicholas Colyvas, MD CJR: Understanding the Economics and Risk Oct. 25, 2016 Moderator: John Cherf, MD, MPH, MBA Selling & Closing an Orthopaedic Practice Nov. 1, 2016 Moderator: Stephen W. Shick, MD For more information, email pracman@aaos.org