Liver cirrhosis is a progressive condition that develops gradually over several years, resulting in the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis) in the liver due to prolonged damage. This scarring impairs blood flow through the liver, leading to liver dysfunction. Also known as end-stage liver disease, the condition is primarily caused by extended exposure to toxins like alcohol or viral infections. It tends to affect men more commonly than women.
Proper documentation is crucial for justifying medical necessity and selecting accurate billing codes. A reliable medical coding company can assist in ensuring precise and timely claim submission for appropriate reimbursement, alleviating the administrative burden for healthcare providers.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Liver Cirrhosis
The diagnosis of this condition is made after a thorough review of the patient’s medical history and a comprehensive physical examination. Additionally, routine and complete blood count tests are performed to analyze the symptoms. Further diagnosis tests may include liver function tests, alpha fetoprotein (a liver cancer screening), and imaging tests like ultrasound scans, MRI, CT scans of the abdomen, and Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE). In some cases, an upper endoscopy may be necessary. Treatment for liver cirrhosis typically involves a combination of medications, adopting positive lifestyle habits, and, in severe cases, surgical procedures such as liver transplantation. For severe cases, a liver biopsy may be performed to assess the extent, severity, and underlying cause of liver damage. Treatment procedures may involve intravenous antibiotics, hemodialysis, and banding procedures.
Medical billing services for liver conditions demand expertise on the part of coders in utilizing appropriate modifiers and adhering to payer-specific billing guidelines. Given the intricacies involved, assistance from a professional medical billing company can prove invaluable in accurately documenting liver cirrhosis and navigating the complexities of the billing process.
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Since joining our RCM Division in October 2021, Loralee, who is HIT Certified (Health Information Technology/Health Information Management), brings her extensive expertise in medical coding and Health Information Management practices to OSI.