by Christine Woolstenhulme, QMC QCC CMCS CPC CMRS
Apr 13th, 2020
CMS has recently released some important information on their last MLN, the highlights are below.
COVID-19: Dear Clinician Letter
CMS posted a letter to clinicians that outlines a summary of actions CMS has taken to ensure clinicians have maximum flexibility to reduce unnecessary barriers to providing patient care during the unprecedented outbreak of COVID-19. The summary includes information about telehealth and virtual visits, accelerated and advanced payments, and recent waiver information.
Letter (PDF)
COVID-19: Non-Emergent, Elective Medical Services and Treatment Recommendations
Supplier Education on Use of Upgrades for Multi-Function Ventilators
A new MLN Matters Special Edition Article SE20012 on Supplier Education on Use of Upgrades for Multi-Function Ventilators (PDF) is available.
Quality Payment Program: MIPS Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances Policy in Response to COVID-19
MIPS extreme and uncontrollable circumstances application
Quality Payment Program COVID-19 Response Fact Sheet
Pneumococcal Pneumonia Vaccination: Eligibility Transactions Includes DOS Starting April 13
See the MLN Matters Article (PDF) for more information.
Accelerated/Advance Payment Program
The fact sheet on the accelerated/advance payment process and how to submit a request can be found here: Fact Sheet (PDF). Providers can also contact their Medicare Administrative Contractor for any questions.
If you have any questions on the above information you can contact qpp@cms.hhs.gov or 866-288-8292 (Customers who are hearing impaired can dial 711 to be connected to a TRS communications assistant)
References/Resources
About Christine Woolstenhulme, QMC QCC CMCS CPC CMRS
Christine Woolstenhulme, CPC, QCC, CMCS, CMRS, is a Certified coder and Medical Biller currently employed with Find-A-Code. Bringing over 30 years of insight, business knowledge, and innovation to the healthcare industry. Establishing a successful Medical Billing Company from 1994 to 2015, during this time, Christine has had the opportunity to learn all aspects of revenue cycle management while working with independent practitioners and in clinic settings. Christine was a VAR for AltaPoint EHR software sales, along with management positions and medical practice consulting. Understanding the complete patient engagement cycle and developing efficient processes to coordinate teams ensuring best practice standards in healthcare. Working with payers on coding and interpreting ACA policies according to state benchmarks and insurance filings and implementing company procedures and policies to coordinate teams and payer benefits.
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