The following information has been received by ANCO.
****CMS NEWS****
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Updates Physician Payment Information for Value-Driven Health Care
To support the delivery of high-quality, efficient health care and enable consumers to make more informed health care decisions, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is making cost and quality data available to all Americans. As part of this initiative, Medicare posted information in 2007 and 2008 about the payments it made during the previous year for common and elective procedures and services provided by Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs), Hospital Outpatient Departments, and Physicians.
The Hospital information is posted on the Hospital Compare Website where it can be viewed along with hospital quality information. The Hospital compare website may be found at www.medicare.gov.
On August 28, 2009, Medicare posted an update to the Ambulatory Surgery Center data. The Physician payment data was posted on September 25, 2009. Hospital Outpatient Department data will be updated later this year. The information is being displayed in the same format as in previous years, updated with calendar year (CY) 2008 data. The posting updates may be found at: www.cms.hhs.gov/HealthCareConInit/.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
Drug Lookup and Calculator Tool
The Drug Lookup and Calculator Tool was created to help providers submit
the correct number of 'units' on their claims by calculating and converting
the dosage administered to the patient. As a bonus, it will also display
the most current Maximum Allowed Units (MAUs) assigned to the drug. Be sure
to take a look at this new self-service tool.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W8K9R6863?opendocument
J1 Part B LCD Update
The following J1 Part B LCDs have been revised: Stereotactic Body Radiation
Therapy and Stereotactic Radiosurgery.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W7SK34877?opendocument
October 2009 J1 A/B MAC Medicare Advisory
The October 2009 J1 A/B Mac Medicare Advisory is available on the Palmetto
GBA Web site.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W8K4Q8450?opendocument
Medicare Provider Feedback Town Hall Meeting
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requests your
participation in a Town Hall meeting on October 29, 2009, from 2 p.m. to 4
p.m. ET. The meeting will be held via conference call as well as in the
auditorium at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 7500 Security
Blvd., Baltimore, Maryland 21244.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/Providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7WCKU73455?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
ASH, CMS & Palmetto/J1MAC News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****ASH NEWS****
The American Society of Hematology's (ASH) Practice Update was published and is available online at http://www.hematology.org/Practice/Practice-Updates/4284.aspx. This edition features:
Senate Finance Committee Begins Markup on Chairman Baucus' Health Reform Proposal
White House Reaffirms Commitment to Fixing the Medicare Physician Payment Formula and Health Reform
ASH Urges Congress to Replace the Flawed SGR.
DHHS Alert: Cocaine Mixed with Levamisole Causing Agranulocytosis in Users
Changes Impacting Hematology ICD-9 Codes Become Effective October 1
What's New with the 2009 PQRI and E-Prescribing Incentive Programs
October 2009 ASP Files Available from Medicare
****CMS NEWS****
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is holding a Special Open Door Forum (ODF) in order to share the proposed key elements of the Medicare Imaging Demonstration design.
This demonstration was authorized by Section 135(b) of the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA) for the purpose of collecting data regarding physician use of advanced diagnostic imaging services. For purposes of this demonstration, advanced diagnostic imaging services are defined as diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and nuclear medicine.
Tentative Agenda:
1. Demonstration overview
2. Advanced imaging procedures
3. Decision Support Systems and guidelines
4. Quality
For a copy of the presentation slides and more general information about the demonstration, please see the demonstration website: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/DemoProjectsEvalRpts/MD/itemdetail.asp?filterType=none&filterByDID=-99&sortByDID=3&sortOrder=descending&itemID=CMS1222075&intNumPerPage=10
Telephone participants will be given an opportunity to speak and will be asked to limit comments to 2 minutes.
Interested parties may submit comments or input in written form to ImagingDemo135b@cms.hhs.govby noon ET on Wednesday, September 30, 2009.
We look forward to your participation.
To participate by phone:
Dial: 1-800-837-1935 & Reference Conference ID: 29805623
Persons participating by phone are not required to RSVP.
Note: TTY Communications Relay Services are available for the Hearing Impaired. For TTY services dial 7-1-1 or 1-800-855-2880. A Relay Communications Assistant will help.
An audio recording of this Special Forum will be posted to the Special Open Door Forum website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/OpenDoorForums/05_ODF_SpecialODF.asp and will be accessible for downloading beginning Tuesday, October 13, 2009
For automatic emails of Open Door Forum schedule updates, E-Mailing list subscriptions and to view Frequently Asked Questions please visit our website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/opendoorforums/ .
Thank you for your interest in CMS Open Door Forums.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
Claim Adjustment Reason Code (CARC), Remittance Advice Remark Code (RARC),
and Medicare Remit Easy Print (MREP) Update
CR 6604, from which this article is taken, announces the latest update of
Remittance Advice Remark Codes (RARCs) and Claim Adjustment Reason Codes
(CARCs), effective October 1, 2009. Be sure billing staff are aware of
these changes.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W6LWF7023?opendocument
Implementation of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of
1996 (HIPAA) version 5010 for Transaction 835 - Health Care Claim
Payment/Advice,
CR 6589, from which this article is taken, instructs Medicare Contractors
to implement Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996
(HIPAA) Transaction 835 version 5010.
Make sure that your billing staffs are aware that the new HIPAA transaction
835 version 5010 is being implemented, and Medicare can begin to generate
the 835 version 5010 for testing with trading partners and/or for
transitioning early adopters of the new standard as of January 1, 2011.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W6M2P2871?opendocument
ACT: General Medicare Updates - September 29, 2009
Join the Palmetto GBA J1 Part B Outreach and Education team for an Ask the
Contractor Teleconference (ACT) on September 29, 2009. The topic will be
general Medicare updates.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W7JTU0270?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
****ASH NEWS****
The American Society of Hematology's (ASH) Practice Update was published and is available online at http://www.hematology.org/Practice/Practice-Updates/4284.aspx. This edition features:
Senate Finance Committee Begins Markup on Chairman Baucus' Health Reform Proposal
White House Reaffirms Commitment to Fixing the Medicare Physician Payment Formula and Health Reform
ASH Urges Congress to Replace the Flawed SGR.
DHHS Alert: Cocaine Mixed with Levamisole Causing Agranulocytosis in Users
Changes Impacting Hematology ICD-9 Codes Become Effective October 1
What's New with the 2009 PQRI and E-Prescribing Incentive Programs
October 2009 ASP Files Available from Medicare
****CMS NEWS****
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is holding a Special Open Door Forum (ODF) in order to share the proposed key elements of the Medicare Imaging Demonstration design.
This demonstration was authorized by Section 135(b) of the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA) for the purpose of collecting data regarding physician use of advanced diagnostic imaging services. For purposes of this demonstration, advanced diagnostic imaging services are defined as diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and nuclear medicine.
Tentative Agenda:
1. Demonstration overview
2. Advanced imaging procedures
3. Decision Support Systems and guidelines
4. Quality
For a copy of the presentation slides and more general information about the demonstration, please see the demonstration website: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/DemoProjectsEvalRpts/MD/itemdetail.asp?filterType=none&filterByDID=-99&sortByDID=3&sortOrder=descending&itemID=CMS1222075&intNumPerPage=10
Telephone participants will be given an opportunity to speak and will be asked to limit comments to 2 minutes.
Interested parties may submit comments or input in written form to ImagingDemo135b@cms.hhs.govby noon ET on Wednesday, September 30, 2009.
We look forward to your participation.
To participate by phone:
Dial: 1-800-837-1935 & Reference Conference ID: 29805623
Persons participating by phone are not required to RSVP.
Note: TTY Communications Relay Services are available for the Hearing Impaired. For TTY services dial 7-1-1 or 1-800-855-2880. A Relay Communications Assistant will help.
An audio recording of this Special Forum will be posted to the Special Open Door Forum website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/OpenDoorForums/05_ODF_SpecialODF.asp and will be accessible for downloading beginning Tuesday, October 13, 2009
For automatic emails of Open Door Forum schedule updates, E-Mailing list subscriptions and to view Frequently Asked Questions please visit our website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/opendoorforums/ .
Thank you for your interest in CMS Open Door Forums.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
Claim Adjustment Reason Code (CARC), Remittance Advice Remark Code (RARC),
and Medicare Remit Easy Print (MREP) Update
CR 6604, from which this article is taken, announces the latest update of
Remittance Advice Remark Codes (RARCs) and Claim Adjustment Reason Codes
(CARCs), effective October 1, 2009. Be sure billing staff are aware of
these changes.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W6LWF7023?opendocument
Implementation of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of
1996 (HIPAA) version 5010 for Transaction 835 - Health Care Claim
Payment/Advice,
CR 6589, from which this article is taken, instructs Medicare Contractors
to implement Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996
(HIPAA) Transaction 835 version 5010.
Make sure that your billing staffs are aware that the new HIPAA transaction
835 version 5010 is being implemented, and Medicare can begin to generate
the 835 version 5010 for testing with trading partners and/or for
transitioning early adopters of the new standard as of January 1, 2011.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W6M2P2871?opendocument
ACT: General Medicare Updates - September 29, 2009
Join the Palmetto GBA J1 Part B Outreach and Education team for an Ask the
Contractor Teleconference (ACT) on September 29, 2009. The topic will be
general Medicare updates.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W7JTU0270?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
ACCC, CMA, CMS & Palmetto/J1MAC News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****ACCC NEWS***
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) Connect was published and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/2009/media_ACCConnect_9-23-2009.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
ACCC Submits Comments to CMS on PET
Particle Beam Radiation Therapy Promising but Unproven for Treating Cancer
Prometheus Laboratories Inc Joins ACCC's Technical Advisory Council
Education Needs Assessment Survey: Oncology Practices
Virtual Tumor Board: Early Breast Cancer
ICD-9 Codes, ESAs, and Iron Supplementation
Myriad Genetics Launches Public Awareness Campaign for Healthcare Providers and Patients
****CMA NEWS***
The California Medical Association (CMA) Alert was published today and is available online at http://www.calphys.org/html/news.asp. This edition features:
Medical Liability Issues on the Front Burner in Washington
Alfred Gilchrist Named New CMA CEO
Senate Finance Finally Unveils Health Reform Bill
CDC Encourages Swift Use of Antivirals in High Risk H1N1 Patients
Hospital Outpatient Clinics: Legal Considerations for Physicians
Blue Cross Physicians: Don’t Forget to Review New Fees Before 11/11
CMA-Sponsored Bills Pass Legislature; Await Governor’s Signature
Annual Session Resolutions Available to Members Online
Tickets Now on Sale for CMA Foundation Annual Dinner
Best Practices: Improving the Patient Experience
Physician EHR Case Study Chapter 4: At the Brink of E-Prescribing
****CMS NEWS***
What’s New with 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) and Electronic Prescribing (E-Prescribing) Incentive Programs
1. New Medicare Learning Network Education Product
2. New and Revised MLN Articles on the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative
3. Three Physician Quality Reporting Initiative Help Desk Resources Now Available for Eligible Professionals
Medicare Learning Network Announces Availability of the 2009 PQRI and E-Prescribing Program Web-based Training Course
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Medicare Learning Network (MLN) is pleased to announce that the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) and Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program (E-Prescribing) Web-based Training Course is now available.
The course provides information to physicians, health care professionals, and medical administrative staff on the completion, submission and maintenance of the documentation required to successfully participate in Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) and Electronic Prescription Incentive (E-Prescribing) programs. The course offers continuing education credits; please see the course description page for the details.
The course can be accessed by going to http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNGenInfo on the CMS website and scrolling down to the “Related Links Inside CMS” section and selecting Web Based Training (WBT) Modules. Once on the web-based training module page, select the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative and Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program WBT from the list provided.
Medicare Learning Network Announces New and Revised MLN Articles on the 2009 PQRI
~New-MM6514- Coding and Reporting Principles for the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) and the Electronic Prescribing (E-Prescribing) Incentive Programs
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/mlnmattersarticles/downloads/MM6514.pdf
~Revised-SE0830- Steps for Individual Eligible Professionals to Access Their 2007 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) Feedback Reports Personally
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0830.pdf
~Revised-SE0831- Steps for Organizations to Access Their 2007 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) Feedback Report
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0831.pdf
These new and revised articles are intended to assist eligible professionals and group practices who report PQRI quality measures data to Medicare.
Three Physician Quality Reporting Initiative Help Desk Resources are Available for Eligible Professionals
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce three PQRI Help Desk Resources to assist eligible professionals with their questions on the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative.
1. Provider Call Center Directory
· Remittance Advice Notices
· Incentive payment distribution status
· Adjustments made to incentive payment due to sanctions/overpayments
For contact information, see the “Provider Center Toll-free Numbers Directory” by clicking the link under the “Related Links Inside CMS” section below and scrolling down to the “Downloads” section.
2. External User Services (EUS) – 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM EST
· Registering/creating an IACS account
· Accessing an IACS account
· Changing an IACS account
· Approving users into an organization
Phone: 1-866-484-8049
TTY: 1-866-523-4759
3. QualityNet Help Desk – 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM CST
· General CMS PQRI & ERX Information
· PQRI Portal Password Issues
· PQRI feedback report availability and access
Phone: 1-866-288-8912
All publicly available information on the CMS Physician Quality Reporting Initiative can be found at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI, on the CMS website.
All publicly available information on the CMS Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program can be found at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ERxIncentive on the CMS website.
SE0926 – 2009 - 2010 Seasonal Influenza (Flu) Resources for Health Care Professionals
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0926.pdf
MM6589 – Implementation of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) version 5010 for Transaction 835 - Health Care Claim Payment/Advice
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6589.pdf
MM6599 – Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Transition and Outbound Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Transactions
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6599.pdf
MM6604 – Claim Adjustment Reason Code (CARC), Remittance Advice Remark Code (RARC), and Medicare Remit Easy Print (MREP) Update
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6604.pdf
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
Registration is Open for J1 MACtoberfest October 29-30
Registration is now open for MACtoberfest, our fall face-to-face education
series, in Las Vegas October 29 through 30. It's the last in-person event
of the year and provides an opportunity to interact face to face with
Palmetto GBA representatives and other key Medicare partners.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W4L6L1805?opendocument
J1 Provider Contact Center To Be Closed for Training on Friday, September 25
The J1 Provider Contact Center will be closed for training on Friday,
September 25, 2009 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. PST.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W5MCA2360?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
****ACCC NEWS***
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) Connect was published and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/2009/media_ACCConnect_9-23-2009.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
ACCC Submits Comments to CMS on PET
Particle Beam Radiation Therapy Promising but Unproven for Treating Cancer
Prometheus Laboratories Inc Joins ACCC's Technical Advisory Council
Education Needs Assessment Survey: Oncology Practices
Virtual Tumor Board: Early Breast Cancer
ICD-9 Codes, ESAs, and Iron Supplementation
Myriad Genetics Launches Public Awareness Campaign for Healthcare Providers and Patients
****CMA NEWS***
The California Medical Association (CMA) Alert was published today and is available online at http://www.calphys.org/html/news.asp. This edition features:
Medical Liability Issues on the Front Burner in Washington
Alfred Gilchrist Named New CMA CEO
Senate Finance Finally Unveils Health Reform Bill
CDC Encourages Swift Use of Antivirals in High Risk H1N1 Patients
Hospital Outpatient Clinics: Legal Considerations for Physicians
Blue Cross Physicians: Don’t Forget to Review New Fees Before 11/11
CMA-Sponsored Bills Pass Legislature; Await Governor’s Signature
Annual Session Resolutions Available to Members Online
Tickets Now on Sale for CMA Foundation Annual Dinner
Best Practices: Improving the Patient Experience
Physician EHR Case Study Chapter 4: At the Brink of E-Prescribing
****CMS NEWS***
What’s New with 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) and Electronic Prescribing (E-Prescribing) Incentive Programs
1. New Medicare Learning Network Education Product
2. New and Revised MLN Articles on the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative
3. Three Physician Quality Reporting Initiative Help Desk Resources Now Available for Eligible Professionals
Medicare Learning Network Announces Availability of the 2009 PQRI and E-Prescribing Program Web-based Training Course
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Medicare Learning Network (MLN) is pleased to announce that the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) and Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program (E-Prescribing) Web-based Training Course is now available.
The course provides information to physicians, health care professionals, and medical administrative staff on the completion, submission and maintenance of the documentation required to successfully participate in Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) and Electronic Prescription Incentive (E-Prescribing) programs. The course offers continuing education credits; please see the course description page for the details.
The course can be accessed by going to http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNGenInfo on the CMS website and scrolling down to the “Related Links Inside CMS” section and selecting Web Based Training (WBT) Modules. Once on the web-based training module page, select the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative and Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program WBT from the list provided.
Medicare Learning Network Announces New and Revised MLN Articles on the 2009 PQRI
~New-MM6514- Coding and Reporting Principles for the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) and the Electronic Prescribing (E-Prescribing) Incentive Programs
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/mlnmattersarticles/downloads/MM6514.pdf
~Revised-SE0830- Steps for Individual Eligible Professionals to Access Their 2007 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) Feedback Reports Personally
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0830.pdf
~Revised-SE0831- Steps for Organizations to Access Their 2007 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) Feedback Report
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0831.pdf
These new and revised articles are intended to assist eligible professionals and group practices who report PQRI quality measures data to Medicare.
Three Physician Quality Reporting Initiative Help Desk Resources are Available for Eligible Professionals
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce three PQRI Help Desk Resources to assist eligible professionals with their questions on the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative.
1. Provider Call Center Directory
· Remittance Advice Notices
· Incentive payment distribution status
· Adjustments made to incentive payment due to sanctions/overpayments
For contact information, see the “Provider Center Toll-free Numbers Directory” by clicking the link under the “Related Links Inside CMS” section below and scrolling down to the “Downloads” section.
2. External User Services (EUS) – 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM EST
· Registering/creating an IACS account
· Accessing an IACS account
· Changing an IACS account
· Approving users into an organization
Phone: 1-866-484-8049
TTY: 1-866-523-4759
3. QualityNet Help Desk – 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM CST
· General CMS PQRI & ERX Information
· PQRI Portal Password Issues
· PQRI feedback report availability and access
Phone: 1-866-288-8912
All publicly available information on the CMS Physician Quality Reporting Initiative can be found at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI, on the CMS website.
All publicly available information on the CMS Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program can be found at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ERxIncentive on the CMS website.
SE0926 – 2009 - 2010 Seasonal Influenza (Flu) Resources for Health Care Professionals
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0926.pdf
MM6589 – Implementation of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) version 5010 for Transaction 835 - Health Care Claim Payment/Advice
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6589.pdf
MM6599 – Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Transition and Outbound Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Transactions
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6599.pdf
MM6604 – Claim Adjustment Reason Code (CARC), Remittance Advice Remark Code (RARC), and Medicare Remit Easy Print (MREP) Update
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6604.pdf
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
Registration is Open for J1 MACtoberfest October 29-30
Registration is now open for MACtoberfest, our fall face-to-face education
series, in Las Vegas October 29 through 30. It's the last in-person event
of the year and provides an opportunity to interact face to face with
Palmetto GBA representatives and other key Medicare partners.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W4L6L1805?opendocument
J1 Provider Contact Center To Be Closed for Training on Friday, September 25
The J1 Provider Contact Center will be closed for training on Friday,
September 25, 2009 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. PST.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7W5MCA2360?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Palmetto/J1MAC News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Provider Outreach Sessions
Save the date: CMS will host provider outreach sessions in San Luis
Obispo, California and Santa Barbara, California on September 29, 2009, and
September 30, 2009. These sessions will include a presentation by the CMS
central office on the Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) program.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VYKJ21687?opendocument
J1 Part B LCD Update
Several J1 Part B LCDs have been revised and are available for review on
our Web site. Please share with your staff.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VXSF76783?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Provider Outreach Sessions
Save the date: CMS will host provider outreach sessions in San Luis
Obispo, California and Santa Barbara, California on September 29, 2009, and
September 30, 2009. These sessions will include a presentation by the CMS
central office on the Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) program.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VYKJ21687?opendocument
J1 Part B LCD Update
Several J1 Part B LCDs have been revised and are available for review on
our Web site. Please share with your staff.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VXSF76783?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
Friday, September 18, 2009
CMS & Palmetto/J1MAC News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****CMS NEWS****
The results of the 2009 Medicare Contractor Provider Satisfaction Survey (MCPSS) are now available.
The MCPSS enables CMS to gauge provider satisfaction with key services performed by the Medicare Fee-for-Service (FFS) contractors that process and pay the more than $300 billion in Medicare claims each year. Respondents rated their FFS contractors between 4 and 6 on a 6-point scale, with “1” representing “not at all satisfied” and “6” representing “completely satisfied.” The 2009 MCPSS marked the fourth annual administration of the survey.
The national average has remained relatively stable through each MCPSS administration. The 2009 national average was 4.54, compared to last year’s national average of 4.51. The MCPSS was sent early this year to more than 32,000 randomly selected providers, including physicians, suppliers, health care practitioners and institutional facilities that serve Medicare beneficiaries across the country.
As in 2008, Provider Inquiries was cited as the top indicator of satisfaction. For the fourth consecutive year this business function was cited as one of the key predictors of provider satisfaction. Claims Processing remained a strong predictor of provider satisfaction as in the past three years.
The public reporting of the results over the last four years has increased awareness about the MCPSS. CMS has used the MCPSS to establish a uniform measure of provider satisfaction with FFS contractor performance. Each FFS contractor receives an individual report of findings specific to their organization, which can be used to implement process improvement initiatives.
The results of the 2009 survey are available through the CMS and MCPSS web pages at:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MCPSS/ and https://www.mcpsstudy.org/ .
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has posted the October 2009 ASP pricing files and crosswalks, which are available for download at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/McrPartBDrugAvgSalesPrice/01a1_2009aspfiles.asp .
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce that the PowerPoint presentation used during the September 17th, 2009 National Provider Call is posted on the CMS website.
To access the PowerPoint Presentation, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI on the CMS website and click on the CMS Sponsored Calls tab. Once on the CMS Sponsored Calls page, scroll down to the “Downloads” section and click on the “National Provider Call-September 17th 2009” link. As an added benefit, the presentation is also available as an Adobe Acrobat file.
CMS will continue to hold national conference calls on a variety of topics related to the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative and the Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program. When each call is announced, registration information will be provided on the CMS Sponsored Calls page. All calls are free of charge.
If you are unable to participate in a scheduled call, the option read the transcript of the call will be made available.
To access the registration information on all upcoming National Provider Calls, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI on the CMS website and click on the CMS Sponsored Calls tab.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
J1 Open Meetings
Have Palmetto GBA J1 coverage questions? Come to the Palmetto GBA J1
October Open Meetings in Hawaii, California or Nevada to have your
questions addressed. There will be no Draft Local Coverage Determinations
(LCDs) being presented for comment at the meetings.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VVMPK1270?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
****CMS NEWS****
The results of the 2009 Medicare Contractor Provider Satisfaction Survey (MCPSS) are now available.
The MCPSS enables CMS to gauge provider satisfaction with key services performed by the Medicare Fee-for-Service (FFS) contractors that process and pay the more than $300 billion in Medicare claims each year. Respondents rated their FFS contractors between 4 and 6 on a 6-point scale, with “1” representing “not at all satisfied” and “6” representing “completely satisfied.” The 2009 MCPSS marked the fourth annual administration of the survey.
The national average has remained relatively stable through each MCPSS administration. The 2009 national average was 4.54, compared to last year’s national average of 4.51. The MCPSS was sent early this year to more than 32,000 randomly selected providers, including physicians, suppliers, health care practitioners and institutional facilities that serve Medicare beneficiaries across the country.
As in 2008, Provider Inquiries was cited as the top indicator of satisfaction. For the fourth consecutive year this business function was cited as one of the key predictors of provider satisfaction. Claims Processing remained a strong predictor of provider satisfaction as in the past three years.
The public reporting of the results over the last four years has increased awareness about the MCPSS. CMS has used the MCPSS to establish a uniform measure of provider satisfaction with FFS contractor performance. Each FFS contractor receives an individual report of findings specific to their organization, which can be used to implement process improvement initiatives.
The results of the 2009 survey are available through the CMS and MCPSS web pages at:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MCPSS/ and https://www.mcpsstudy.org/ .
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has posted the October 2009 ASP pricing files and crosswalks, which are available for download at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/McrPartBDrugAvgSalesPrice/01a1_2009aspfiles.asp .
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce that the PowerPoint presentation used during the September 17th, 2009 National Provider Call is posted on the CMS website.
To access the PowerPoint Presentation, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI on the CMS website and click on the CMS Sponsored Calls tab. Once on the CMS Sponsored Calls page, scroll down to the “Downloads” section and click on the “National Provider Call-September 17th 2009” link. As an added benefit, the presentation is also available as an Adobe Acrobat file.
CMS will continue to hold national conference calls on a variety of topics related to the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative and the Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program. When each call is announced, registration information will be provided on the CMS Sponsored Calls page. All calls are free of charge.
If you are unable to participate in a scheduled call, the option read the transcript of the call will be made available.
To access the registration information on all upcoming National Provider Calls, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI on the CMS website and click on the CMS Sponsored Calls tab.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
J1 Open Meetings
Have Palmetto GBA J1 coverage questions? Come to the Palmetto GBA J1
October Open Meetings in Hawaii, California or Nevada to have your
questions addressed. There will be no Draft Local Coverage Determinations
(LCDs) being presented for comment at the meetings.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VVMPK1270?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
Monday, September 14, 2009
CMS & Palmetto/J1MAC News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****CMS NEWS****
MM6578 – Screening Computed Tomography Colonography (CTC) for Colorectal Cancer
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6578.pdf
MM6619 – 2010 Annual Update of HCPCS Codes for Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Consolidated Billing (CB) for the Common Working File (CWF), A/B MACs, Medicare Carriers and Fiscal Intermediaries (FIs)
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6619.pdf
MM6595 – Implementation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Version 5010 Only in Jurisdiction 10 and Jurisdiction 14 Parts A and B (A/B) Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs)
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6595.pdf
SE0924 – Announcing the Release of the Revised CMS-855 Medicare Enrollment Applications
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0924.pdf
Enhancements/Updates to NPPES effective on/after September 13, 2009
On September 13, 2009, the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) will undergo system maintenance. As such, neither NPPES nor the National Provider Identifier (NPI) Registry will be available on September 13, 2009.
The following security enhancements will be incorporated into NPPES:
· NPPES web users will be required to select five secret questions and answers. Upon implementation of this enhancement and upon successful login, NPPES web users will be prompted to select five secret questions and provide answers to those questions. These five secret questions and answers will be saved and used for verification in order to allow NPPES web users to reset their own passwords.
· NPPES web users will be prevented from changing their passwords more than once within 24 hours from the last password update. Upon implementation of this enhancement, NPPES web users will be required to wait 24 hours before attempting to change their passwords once they have already successfully reset their passwords.
Electronic File Interchange (EFI)
In addition, the EFI User Manual and Technical Companion Guide have been revised. The upcoming changes will not impact the EFI XML Schema.
Additional Information
Health care providers can apply for an NPI online at https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov . Health care providers needing assistance with applying for an NPI or updating their data in NPPES records may contact the NPI Enumerator at 1-800-465-3203 or email the request to the NPI Enumerator at CustomerService@NPIEnumerator.com.
Not sure if you have already obtained an NPI or cannot remember your NPI, you can visit the NPI Registry at https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/NPPES/NPIRegistryHome.do to search for the information. The NPI Registry enables you to search for a provider’s NPPES information, which includes the NPI. All information displayed in the NPI Registry is done so in accordance with the NPPES Data Dissemination Notice. Information in the NPI Registry is updated daily. You may run simple queries to retrieve this read-only data. For example, users may search for a provider by the NPI or Legal Name/Legal Business Name. There is no charge to use the NPI Registry.
Visit CMS' dedicated NPI web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/NationalProvIdentStand for additional NPI education and information.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
The J1 Medicare educational symposia and networking
program has been fully planned and will take place in beautiful Las Vegas, NV
on October 28-30. We have two full days packed with multiple breakout sessions
conducted by subject matter experts with full expertise and knowledge in each
of their respective areas. Attendees will also have an opportunity to hear
directly from other Medicare Partner organizations such as the PSCs; QIOs and
the RAC. Each will be on hand and conducting educational sessions.
Visit http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Jurisdiction%201%20Part%20B~Registration%20is%20Open%20for%20J1%20MACtoberfest%20October%2029-30?open&cat=events for more information and to register.
ACT Minutes: Comprehensive Error Rate Testing (CERT) - August 25, 2009
(PDF, 58 KB)
The meeting minutes of the J1 Part B Ask the Contractor Teleconference
(ACT): CERT on August 25, 2009, are now available on our Web site.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VSPY78724?opendocument
California Contractor Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
The minutes for the California Contractor Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting
on July 22, 2009, are now available on our Web site.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7SWQGW2011?opendocument
CPT Code 93228 - Provider Types/Specialities
Due to an incorrect system update to CPT code 93228, a processing error
occurred with claims in Nevada, Hawaii, Guam, American Samoa and Northern
Marianna Islands. The error excluded this procedure code from being payable
to several provider types that would normally be permitted to bill the
service. Claims have been denied in error since April 15, 2009. A mass
adjustment will be performed once the system is updated.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VRP3S1071?opendocument
CPT Code 95920 - Provider Types/Specialties
Due to an incorrect system update to CPT code 95920, previously allowed
provider types and specialties might have been denied. This error affected
claims processed July 1, 2009, through August 19, 2009. A mass adjustment
has been requested to reprocess affected claims.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VRPBZ8335?opendocument
September 15, 2009: POE-AG Agenda
The agenda of the J1 Part B Provider Outreach and Education Advisory Group
meeting on September 15, 2009, is now available on our Web site.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VSMNN5150?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
****CMS NEWS****
MM6578 – Screening Computed Tomography Colonography (CTC) for Colorectal Cancer
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6578.pdf
MM6619 – 2010 Annual Update of HCPCS Codes for Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Consolidated Billing (CB) for the Common Working File (CWF), A/B MACs, Medicare Carriers and Fiscal Intermediaries (FIs)
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6619.pdf
MM6595 – Implementation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Version 5010 Only in Jurisdiction 10 and Jurisdiction 14 Parts A and B (A/B) Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs)
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6595.pdf
SE0924 – Announcing the Release of the Revised CMS-855 Medicare Enrollment Applications
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0924.pdf
Enhancements/Updates to NPPES effective on/after September 13, 2009
On September 13, 2009, the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) will undergo system maintenance. As such, neither NPPES nor the National Provider Identifier (NPI) Registry will be available on September 13, 2009.
The following security enhancements will be incorporated into NPPES:
· NPPES web users will be required to select five secret questions and answers. Upon implementation of this enhancement and upon successful login, NPPES web users will be prompted to select five secret questions and provide answers to those questions. These five secret questions and answers will be saved and used for verification in order to allow NPPES web users to reset their own passwords.
· NPPES web users will be prevented from changing their passwords more than once within 24 hours from the last password update. Upon implementation of this enhancement, NPPES web users will be required to wait 24 hours before attempting to change their passwords once they have already successfully reset their passwords.
Electronic File Interchange (EFI)
In addition, the EFI User Manual and Technical Companion Guide have been revised. The upcoming changes will not impact the EFI XML Schema.
Additional Information
Health care providers can apply for an NPI online at https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov . Health care providers needing assistance with applying for an NPI or updating their data in NPPES records may contact the NPI Enumerator at 1-800-465-3203 or email the request to the NPI Enumerator at CustomerService@NPIEnumerator.com.
Not sure if you have already obtained an NPI or cannot remember your NPI, you can visit the NPI Registry at https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/NPPES/NPIRegistryHome.do to search for the information. The NPI Registry enables you to search for a provider’s NPPES information, which includes the NPI. All information displayed in the NPI Registry is done so in accordance with the NPPES Data Dissemination Notice. Information in the NPI Registry is updated daily. You may run simple queries to retrieve this read-only data. For example, users may search for a provider by the NPI or Legal Name/Legal Business Name. There is no charge to use the NPI Registry.
Visit CMS' dedicated NPI web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/NationalProvIdentStand for additional NPI education and information.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
The J1 Medicare educational symposia and networking
program has been fully planned and will take place in beautiful Las Vegas, NV
on October 28-30. We have two full days packed with multiple breakout sessions
conducted by subject matter experts with full expertise and knowledge in each
of their respective areas. Attendees will also have an opportunity to hear
directly from other Medicare Partner organizations such as the PSCs; QIOs and
the RAC. Each will be on hand and conducting educational sessions.
Visit http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Jurisdiction%201%20Part%20B~Registration%20is%20Open%20for%20J1%20MACtoberfest%20October%2029-30?open&cat=events for more information and to register.
ACT Minutes: Comprehensive Error Rate Testing (CERT) - August 25, 2009
(PDF, 58 KB)
The meeting minutes of the J1 Part B Ask the Contractor Teleconference
(ACT): CERT on August 25, 2009, are now available on our Web site.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VSPY78724?opendocument
California Contractor Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
The minutes for the California Contractor Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting
on July 22, 2009, are now available on our Web site.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7SWQGW2011?opendocument
CPT Code 93228 - Provider Types/Specialities
Due to an incorrect system update to CPT code 93228, a processing error
occurred with claims in Nevada, Hawaii, Guam, American Samoa and Northern
Marianna Islands. The error excluded this procedure code from being payable
to several provider types that would normally be permitted to bill the
service. Claims have been denied in error since April 15, 2009. A mass
adjustment will be performed once the system is updated.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VRP3S1071?opendocument
CPT Code 95920 - Provider Types/Specialties
Due to an incorrect system update to CPT code 95920, previously allowed
provider types and specialties might have been denied. This error affected
claims processed July 1, 2009, through August 19, 2009. A mass adjustment
has been requested to reprocess affected claims.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VRPBZ8335?opendocument
September 15, 2009: POE-AG Agenda
The agenda of the J1 Part B Provider Outreach and Education Advisory Group
meeting on September 15, 2009, is now available on our Web site.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VSMNN5150?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
Friday, September 11, 2009
ACCC, ASH, & Palmetto/J1MAC News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****ACCC NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) Connect was published and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/2009/media_ACCConnect_9-9-2009.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
A Push for Consensus in Healthcare Reform
Three ACCC Educational Projects with Your Needs in Mind
New Toolkit Helps Expedite Clinical Trial Contract Negotiations
NCI Plans to Expand Outreach through Community-based Research Programs
New Patient Brochure on Palliative Care Offers Answers, Highlights Benefits
FDA Approves Zevalin Expanded Label as Part of First-Line Therapy in Treatment of Follicular Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Virtual Tumor Board: Early Breast Cance
****ASH NEWS****
The American Society of Hematology (ASH) Practice Update was published and is available online at http://www.hematology.org/Practice/Practice-Updates/4241.aspx. This edition features:
President Obama’s Speech to Congress Reignites Efforts to Pass a Bill this Year
PQRI National Provider Call With Q&A – Thursday, September 17, 2009 from 2:30-4:30 EDT
New Medicare Guidance – Coverage and Reimbursement Rules for the H1N1 Vaccine
Government Accountability Office (GAO) Recommends that CMS Should Explore Finding Savings When Multiple Non-Imaging and Non-Surgical Procedures Performed on the Same Day – Impact for Hematology
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
J1 Provider Outreach and Education Event Calendar
Palmetto GBA J1 Learning and Education Event Calendar for September 2009 is now available on our Web site.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7TAL2C7131?opendocument
2010 Annual Update of HCPCS Codes for Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)
Consolidated Billing (CB) for the Common Working File (CWF), A/B MACs,
Medicare Carriers and Fiscal Intermediaries (FIs)
This article is based on Change Request (CR) 6619 which provides the 2010
annual update of Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Codes
for Skilled Nursing Facility Consolidated Billing (SNF CB) that will be
used in Medicare claims processing systems. Be sure billing staff are aware
of these updates.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VQRS70106?opendocument
October Update to the 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Database
(MPFSDB) Revised
This article was revised on September 2, 2009, to reflect the revised CR
6617 that was issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on
September 1, 2009. The article contains a revised CR release date,
transmittal number, and Web address for accessing CR 6617. The article also
now shows an effective date of September 1, 2009 for codes G9141 and G9142.
All other information remains the same.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VJK3F3251?opendocument
Screening Computed Tomography Colonography (CTC) for Colorectal Cancer
This article is based on Change Request (CR) 6578 which instructs that the
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has determined that current
evidence is inadequate to conclude that Computed Tomography Colonography
(CTC) is an appropriate colorectal cancer screening test under section
1861(pp)(1) of the Social Security Act (the Act). Therefore, effective May
12, 2009, CTC for colorectal cancer screening, also known as virtual
colonoscopy, remains nationally non-covered by Medicare. Medicare
contractors will continue to process claims for CTC for colorectal cancer
screening without change.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VQL9T2144?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
****ACCC NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) Connect was published and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/2009/media_ACCConnect_9-9-2009.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
A Push for Consensus in Healthcare Reform
Three ACCC Educational Projects with Your Needs in Mind
New Toolkit Helps Expedite Clinical Trial Contract Negotiations
NCI Plans to Expand Outreach through Community-based Research Programs
New Patient Brochure on Palliative Care Offers Answers, Highlights Benefits
FDA Approves Zevalin Expanded Label as Part of First-Line Therapy in Treatment of Follicular Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Virtual Tumor Board: Early Breast Cance
****ASH NEWS****
The American Society of Hematology (ASH) Practice Update was published and is available online at http://www.hematology.org/Practice/Practice-Updates/4241.aspx. This edition features:
President Obama’s Speech to Congress Reignites Efforts to Pass a Bill this Year
PQRI National Provider Call With Q&A – Thursday, September 17, 2009 from 2:30-4:30 EDT
New Medicare Guidance – Coverage and Reimbursement Rules for the H1N1 Vaccine
Government Accountability Office (GAO) Recommends that CMS Should Explore Finding Savings When Multiple Non-Imaging and Non-Surgical Procedures Performed on the Same Day – Impact for Hematology
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
J1 Provider Outreach and Education Event Calendar
Palmetto GBA J1 Learning and Education Event Calendar for September 2009 is now available on our Web site.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7TAL2C7131?opendocument
2010 Annual Update of HCPCS Codes for Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)
Consolidated Billing (CB) for the Common Working File (CWF), A/B MACs,
Medicare Carriers and Fiscal Intermediaries (FIs)
This article is based on Change Request (CR) 6619 which provides the 2010
annual update of Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Codes
for Skilled Nursing Facility Consolidated Billing (SNF CB) that will be
used in Medicare claims processing systems. Be sure billing staff are aware
of these updates.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VQRS70106?opendocument
October Update to the 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Database
(MPFSDB) Revised
This article was revised on September 2, 2009, to reflect the revised CR
6617 that was issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on
September 1, 2009. The article contains a revised CR release date,
transmittal number, and Web address for accessing CR 6617. The article also
now shows an effective date of September 1, 2009 for codes G9141 and G9142.
All other information remains the same.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VJK3F3251?opendocument
Screening Computed Tomography Colonography (CTC) for Colorectal Cancer
This article is based on Change Request (CR) 6578 which instructs that the
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has determined that current
evidence is inadequate to conclude that Computed Tomography Colonography
(CTC) is an appropriate colorectal cancer screening test under section
1861(pp)(1) of the Social Security Act (the Act). Therefore, effective May
12, 2009, CTC for colorectal cancer screening, also known as virtual
colonoscopy, remains nationally non-covered by Medicare. Medicare
contractors will continue to process claims for CTC for colorectal cancer
screening without change.
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/vMasterDID/7VQL9T2144?opendocument
The ANCO Online ListServ has moved and is now sent directly from the ANCO office computer. Please contact ListServ@anco-online.org if you wish to update or unsubscribe your e-mail address. Thanks!
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