If you rely on film-based imaging in your practice, Medicare reimbursement will change when you bill for an x-ray. Film-based imaging services billed globally, or when billing the technical component only, must be submitted with a modifier FX. The new modifier, required as of January 1, 2017, triggers a reduction of 20% to the technical reimbursement. No modifier is required if you have digital or computed radiology (CR). Note, however, that CR is slated for a similar reduction in payment beginning on January 1, 2018.
See CMS’ article for more information on the new cut here.
Elizabeth Woodcock is the founder and principal of Woodcock & Associates. She has focused on medical practice operations and revenue cycle management for more than 25 years. She has led educational sessions for a multitude of national professional associations and specialty societies, and consulted for clients as diverse as a solo orthopaedic surgeon in rural Georgia to the Mayo Clinic. She is author or co-author of 17 best-selling practice management books, to include Mastering Patient Flow and The Physician Billing Process: Avoiding Potholes in the Road to Getting Paid. Elizabeth is a Fellow in the American College of Medical Practice Executives and a Certified Professional Coder. In addition to a Bachelor of Arts from Duke University, she completed a Master of Business Administration in healthcare management from The Wharton School of Business of the University of Pennsylvania. She is currently a doctoral student at the Bloomberg School of Public Health of Johns Hopkins University.
The contents of The Sentinel are intended for educational/informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Policyholders are urged to consult with their personal attorney for legal advice, as specific legal requirements may vary from state to state and/or change over time.
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