Outsource Strategies International (OSI) is proud to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website – https://www.outsourcestrategies.com/. Our website was redesigned by MedResponsive, a leading digital marketing agency and provider of comprehensive website design services in the U.S.
Outsource Strategies International (OSI) is one of the leading medical billing and coding companies in the U.S. and has vast experience providing revenue cycle management support for diverse medical specialities. We needed to improve the experience for our website visitors and help them better comprehend our services and offerings. MedResponsive evaluated our requirements and rejuvenated our website to provide an improved user experience.
The new website features comprehensive visual and technical enhancements, a streamlined, modern design, improved functionality and navigability, and easy access to key information.
Created with the user experience in mind, the newly redesigned site includes many new features to help people find the services they need. Our target audience can easily navigate through the site, learn about our services, and make informed decisions about outsourcing medical billing, coding and insurance verification. The site also features rich content in the form of blogs, podcasts and educational resources.
The team has used the Divi WordPress theme, one of the most popular WordPress themes on the market to redesign the site. Fonts, colors, and letter sizes are also customized to suit the layout changes. The easy-to-fill Divi contact form module makes it easy for visitors to communicate with our team. reCAPTCHA v3 is also enabled and customized on web pages. Page loading speed has been improved, which now enables out site to perform well on all fronts.
“We’re happy to unveil our new website to our clients. This stunning website redesign truly allows each of our visitors to have a better user experience and provides access to our robust service details, blogs, educational resources, and more. Thanks to the MedResponsive team,” says Rajeev Rajagopal, the founder of OSI.
We look to MedResponsive for support to implement timely technical improvements and keep our website engaging and up-to-date.
About Outsource Strategies International (OSI)
One of the leading medical billing and coding companies in U.S., Outsource Strategies International (OSI) is experienced in covering all aspects of revenue cycle management including medical billing and coding services, insurance eligibility verification, prior authorizations, and denial management.
About MedResponsive
MedResponsive has extensive experience providing customized SEO and web design services for diverse industry business websites. The team is focused on building engaging business websites that include all the crucial features and functionalities to provide optimal user experience and compete effectively in the online marketplace.
Appropriate treatment and care are key to addressing urological disorders, which depends heavily on individual conditions. The duration of the treatment provided depends upon the gravity of the health condition. In comparison to other specialties, the coding and billing of urological disorders are intricate due to the complexity of the codes and terminologies. Medical billing and coding companies can accurately assign the medical codes and ensure timely submission of your medical claims.
Why error-free coding of urological disorders is important
Urology extends to other specialties such as oncology, gastroenterology, pediatrics, andrology, endocrinology, and gynecology. This makes it distinct and difficult to understand.
Mismanagement of the revenue cycle can occur when urologists have to focus on delivering excellent patient care and are hard-pressed for time
Urology procedures are typically costly. Underpayment or non-payment of urology services rendered can substantially impact the practice.
Health practitioners can have better control over the collections and denials of claims.
ICD-10 codes for common urological disorders
C61- Malignant neoplasm of prostate
N40.1- Benign prostatic hyperplasia with lower urinary tract symptoms
N13.8- Other obstructive and reflex uropathy
R33.9- Retention of urine, unspecified
R33.0- Drug-induced retention of Urine
R33.8- Other retention of urine
N20.0- Calculus of Kidney
N20.9- Urinary calculus, unspecified
N20.2- Calculus of kidney and ureter
N39.41- Urge incontinence
N43.40- Spermatocele epididymis, unspecified
N31.8- Other neuromuscular dysfunction of bladder
C67.9-Malignant neoplasm of bladder, unspecified
C67.0- Malignant neoplasm of trigone of bladder
C67.3 -Malignant neoplasm of anterior wall of bladder
CPT codes for urology surgeries
The CPT codes are assigned by categorizing them based on the organs like kidney, ureter, bladder, and urethra
50010-50593 – Surgical procedures on the kidney
50600-50980 -Surgical procedures on the Ureter
51020- 52700-Surgical procedures on the bladder
53000-53800-Surgical procedures on the urethra
A urology medical coding company can assist urologists to achieve a dynamic, denial-free revenue cycle by covering the most complicated portion of CPT codes. The coding process specifically addresses the nuances of urological disorders, and the services are affordable considering the quality, efficiency and turnaround time.
April is observed as “Parkinson’s Awareness Month”. The observance is an opportunity to increase awareness about Parkinson’s disease – a progressive neurodegenerative disorder – and its symptoms, as well as to support victims. This long-term disorder where the central nervous system degenerates and affects the motor system leads to progressive deterioration of motor function due to loss of dopamine-producing brain cells. Although this neurological condition can’t be fully cured, medications can dramatically reduce or improve the severity of symptoms. In most cases, early symptoms may be mild and unnoticed, which might lead to advanced stages. In advanced cases, surgery may be recommended to regulate certain regions of the brain and improve the symptoms. Billing and coding for Parkinson’s disease (PD) can be a challenging process. Relying on the services of a reputable medical billing and coding company can help neurologists with precise documentation of this neurodegenerative disorder.
The birth month and date of James Parkinson, a London physician who published “An Essay on the Shaking Palsy” in 1817 is now marked as Parkinson’s disease Awareness Month. World Parkinson’s Day is on April 11. James Parkinson was the man who first identified Parkinson’s disease nearly 200 years ago and the first physician to describe the disease. The red tulip is considered as the symbol of Parkinson’s disease awareness and a purple ribbon is the chosen color to wear in support of people with the disease.
Sponsored by the Parkinson’s Foundation, this year, the campaign wants everyone to take actions to impact the future of Parkinson’s disease (PD) – by learning how to navigate our own future with Parkinson’s or helping to create a world without PD. Every year in the U.S., 60,000 people are diagnosed with this disease.
The month-long campaign is a great time to highlight the symptoms and risk factors associated with this condition and diagnose it during the early stages or even prevent it if possible. It promotes a better understanding about this neurological disorder and how it can affect a person.
Symptoms of PD
Generally, symptoms of PD begin on one side of the body and usually remain worse on that side, even after symptoms begin to affect both sides. This condition develops gradually and can also cause stiffness or slowing of movement. Other common signs and symptoms include – slowed movement (bradykinesia), rigid muscles, speech changes, impaired posture and balance, loss of automatic movements and writing changes.
Diagnosis and Treatment of PD
There are no specific tests that exist to diagnose PD. Initial diagnosis of the condition may begin with a detailed evaluation of the medical history, review of signs and symptoms and a neurological and physical examination. Neurologists may request a specific single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) scan called a dopamine transporter scan (DaTscan). Imaging tests like – MRI, ultrasound of the brain, and PET scans may also be used to help rule out other disorders. In addition, physicians may also order lab tests, such as blood tests, to rule out other conditions that may be causing the symptoms.
Though there is no cure for PD, incorporating certain treatment methods such as medications and making several positive lifestyle changes can reduce the severity of the disease. Medications will help people manage problems with walking, movement and tremor, as these medications increase or substitute for dopamine, a specific signaling chemical (neurotransmitter) in the brain.
Documenting PD
Neurologists who diagnose and administer Parkinson treatment procedures must correctly document the same using the right medical codes. Professional coders from experienced medical coding companies ensure that the correct medical codes are reported on the medical claims. ICD-10 diagnosis codes for PD include:
G20: Parkinson’s disease
G21: Secondary parkinsonism
G21.0: Malignant neuroleptic syndrome
G21.1: Other drug-induced secondary parkinsonism
G21.11: Neuroleptic induced parkinsonism
G21.19: Other drug induced secondary parkinsonism
G21.2: Secondary parkinsonism due to other external agents
G21.3: Postencephalitic parkinsonism
G21.4: Vascular parkinsonism
G21.8: Other secondary parkinsonism
G21.9: Secondary parkinsonism, unspecified
PD has several associated complications, such as Dementia and Dysphagia that could have a significant impact on short- and long-term care.
ICD-10 codes for a diagnosis of Dementia and Dysphagia include:
Dementia
F02:Dementia in other diseases classified elsewhere
F02.8:Dementia in other diseases classified elsewhere
F02.80 …… without behavioral disturbance
F02.81 …… with behavioral disturbance
F03: Unspecified dementia
F03.90 …… without behavioral disturbance
F03.91 …… with behavioral disturbance
F03.9: Unspecified dementia
Dysphagia
R13.1 Dysphagia
R13.10…… unspecified
R13.11…… oral phase
R13.12…… oropharyngeal phase
R13.13…… pharyngeal phase
R13.14…… pharyngoesophageal phase
R13.19 Other dysphagia
According to ICD-10 monitor, “it makes it all the more essential that both coding and clinical documentation integrity professionals continue to nurture and build knowledge of the disease processes as a core competency area. Capturing all these associated complications in the documentation and coding is critical to share the patient’s story and paint the picture of this systemic disease severity”.
Make sure you or your loved one has an expert care team to help live better with Parkinson’s, because getting the right care at the right time can make a huge difference.
Overall, we can’t change the Future of PD alone, but by putting our efforts together, we all can make a difference!
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released new ICD-10-CM/PCS codes for implementation on April 1, 2022. Medical billing and coding companies will use several new ICD-10 diagnosis and procedure codes for COVID-19 vaccination status.
New ICD-10 Codesfor COVID-19 vaccination status
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has expanded the ICD-10 diagnosis code list for reporting COVID-19 vaccination status effective April 1, 2022.
The April 1 new diagnosis codes include:
310 – Unvaccinated for COVID-19
311 – Partially vaccinated for COVID-19, and
39 – Other under-immunized status
The guidelines for the use of the codes in subcategory Z28.31 state that “these codes should not be used for individuals who are not eligible for the COVID-19 vaccines, as determined by the healthcare provider.” The inclusion terms for Z28.39 include delinquent immunization status and lapsed immunization schedule status. Also, these three new codes will not impact the MS-DRG calculation as they are designated non-comorbid conditions (non-CC).
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, CMS is implementing 9 new ICD-10 procedure codes effective April 1, 2022:
7 New ICD-10 procedure codes for COVID-19 therapeutics and vaccines
In addition, effective April 1, 2022, CMS will implement the following seven new ICD-10 procedure codes for COVID-19 therapeutics and vaccines —
XW013V7 Introduction of COVID-19 vaccine dose 3 into subcutaneous tissue, percutaneous approach, new technology group 7
XW013W7 Introduction of COVID-19 vaccine booster into subcutaneous tissue, percutaneous approach, new technology group 7
XW023V7 Introduction of COVID-19 vaccine dose 3 into muscle, percutaneous approach, new technology group 7
XW023W7 Introduction of COVID-19 vaccine booster into muscle, percutaneous approach, new technology group 7
XW0DXR7 Introduction of fostamatinib into mouth and pharynx, external approach, new technology group 7
XW0G7R7 Introduction of fostamatinib into upper GI, via natural or artificial opening, new technology group 7
XW0H7R7 Introduction of fostamatinib into lower GI, via natural or artificial opening, new technology group 7
2 codes added to V39.1, Medicare Severity Diagnosis Related Groups (MS-DRGs)
There are 2 new codes to describe the introduction or infusion of therapeutics, including vaccines for COVID-19 treatment —
XW023X7 – Introduction of tixagevimab and cilgavimab monoclonal antibody into muscle, percutaneous approach, new technology group 7; (tixagevimab and cilgavimab monoclonal antibody or Evusheld is used for treatment of COVID-19, and is not a substitute for a vaccine)
XW023Y7 – Introduction of other new technology monoclonal antibody into muscle, percutaneous approach, new technology group 7
Other changes effective April 1, 2022
MCE Edit update: The Medicare Code Editor (MCE) has been updated and CMS has created a new MCE for “unspecified” ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes where there are other diagnosis codes available in that diagnosis code subcategory that further specify the anatomic site.
National Coverage Determination (NCD) for Artificial Heart and Related Devices updated with the removal of the following 3 procedure codes from the Noncovered Procedure List and Limited Coverage Procedure List:
02RK0JZ (Replacement of right ventricle with synthetic substitute, open approach);
02RL0JZ (Replacement of left ventricle with synthetic substitute, open approach); and
02WA0JZ (Revision of synthetic substitute in heart, open approach)
NCD for Ventricular Assist Devices was also updated with the removal of the following 2 procedure codes from the Noncovered Procedure List:
02WA3QZ (Revision of implantable heart assist system in heart, percutaneous approach); and
02WA4QZ (Revision of implantable heart assist system in heart, percutaneous endoscopic approach).
Two codes were removed from the Limited Coverage Procedure List for the Ventricular Assist Devices:
02HA0QZ (Insertion of implantable heart assist system into heart, open approach); and
02WA0QZ (Revision of implantable heart assist system in heart, open approach).
Medical coding outsourcing to an experienced service provider can help physicians update their practice software with the new codes, use the codes appropriately, and stay current with any changes to coding guidelines. Physicians and clinical documentation improvement professionals must also be aware of these diagnosis code updates to ensure accurate documentation and promote a successful transition.
Healthcare policies and reforms are ever-changing, so it is important to keep up with this changing landscape with effective RCM (Revenue Cycle Management) strategies. Medical practices need to streamline their administrative operations so that financial outcomes can be maximized. Lack of an optimized revenue cycle can lead to common pitfalls that every healthcare provider has to deal with. A fiscally responsible medical practice has to ensure excellent delivery of patient care along with the monitoring of overall financial health. With the implementation of ICD-10 codes and value-based reimbursement, there is voluminous patient data that has to be accounted for billing purposes. The evolving pattern of patient payment systems has increased the hassle of accurate medical billing.
Functions that form the revenue cycle management of a hospital are:
Documentation
Entering demographic details of the patient
Checking the eligibility of insurance claims
Medical billing and coding
Filing of the claims
If there is no seamless coordination between different units like the department of billing and coding, data analytics department, collections department and payer enrollment department, the following problems can arise:
Non-clinical insurance claim denials that happen due to erroneous entering of patient data during registration.
Erroneous documentation of medical codes can lead to denial of insurance payment.
Inconsistencies in patient-provider communication due to lack of digitization impact interoperability.
Unintentional non-compliance of Healthcare Information Portability and Accountability Act 1996 (HIPAA).
With effective troubleshooting techniques in place, medical billing and coding companiescan help overcome these challenges. But the problem lies in the fact that healthcare facilities are unaware of these anomalies and proceed with the conventional methodology of management.
Below given are the lapses healthcare facilities have to avoid. These mistakes can adversely affect the revenue management cycle.
1. Lack of proper training of employees
Medical billing requires capturing information accurately. However, human error at this stage can be the reason for the increasing number of claim denials. Unskilled staff enters the wrong ICD-10 and CPT codes corresponding to the diagnoses and treatments provided. Even missing items in the patient data and entering of wrong dates during chart documentation can lead to claim denials. This means the healthcare provider has to rework the claims, and this would delay the reimbursement.
2. Relying on existing staff strength
When healthcare facilities depend upon the existing staff levels, it may be difficult to handle the increasing number of patients and associated data. It is important to hire the right people with the right skills. But healthcare facilities try to stretch the potential of the available staff. This negatively affects the administrative and clinical functions of the revenue cycle.
3. Fragmented administrative team
There will be no coordination between the business and clinical sides as they prioritize different functions. The administrative task of the front-end office is to expedite claims by ensuring that the patient’s name, insurance provider and other personal information are correctly documented. The clinical function gives emphasis to the treatment received by the patient and the compilation of health care data. However, they won’t be functioning in a synchronous manner, and if there is no seamless workflow there will be mounting claim denials.
4. Failure to monitor patient’s medical claim status
Healthcare practices don’t give importance to tracking the entire claims processing. If the potential problems in the claims are not detected, it can result in lagging accounts receivable and excessive administrative costs.
5. Skipping patient eligibility verification
Healthcare providers must take special care to verify the eligibility of the patient prior to providing treatment. If the insurance coverage of the patient is not cross-verified, the claim will be denied. Evaluating patient eligibility plays a key role in the effective management of the revenue cycle.
6. Not leveraging new technology and trends
Many healthcare facilities are stuck with conventional methods of billing which may not be efficient enough to handle large volumes of patient data. The inability to streamline digital workflow complicates the revenue cycle. Hospitals may not be having the adequate infrastructure or might be dealing with budget constraints. Integrating advanced technology in healthcare organizations saves time, money and effort. This, in turn, enhances ROI.
7. Not having a proactive approach to patient payments
Medical practices hesitate to reach out to patients for their statements as an outbound calling strategy. Patients might be in need of information regarding the payments. However, if they are contacted in an active and gentle manner, medical practices can drive more patient payments. Patients can be nudged into action by creating a customized plan.
For efficacious revenue cycle management, healthcare practices have to adapt to the changing healthcare landscape. Medical billing and coding services can keep you abreast with these changes by efficiently managing the revenue cycle to maximize profit. It is because proper execution of billing and coding is necessary to considerably reduce claim denials, and this sets the foundation for successful revenue cycle management.
