Adapting Chiropractic Billing for Remote Consultations

The transition to remote consultations in chiropractic care marks a paradigm shift in how services are delivered and reimbursed. Unlike traditional face-to-face encounters, remote consultations require a complex approach to billing, considering factors such as documentation requirements, coding guidelines, and insurance coverage. Therefore, it is essential to recognize these differences so chiropractors can navigate billing and coding effectively in the virtual realm. Let’s adapt the chiropractic billing for remote consultations.

Chiropractic Coding for Remote Consultations

Understanding the coding rules for remote consultations is essential for accurately documenting and billing for services rendered. By mastering the complexities of coding guidelines and selecting appropriate codes, chiropractors can ensure compliance, optimize reimbursement, and provide high-quality care to their patients in remote settings. Let’s have a look at the CPT codes to be used for remote consultations:

CPT Code	Service Description	Time Range	Medicare Fee Schedule (per unit)
99421	Online digital E/M service for established patient	5-10 minutes	$16-$55
99422	Online digital E/M service for established patient	11-20 minutes	$16-$55
99423	Online digital E/M service for established patient	21 or more minutes	$16-$55

Remote Consultations Billing Instructions

1. Box 24b Placement: Enter "02" on the CMS-1500 claim form to denote the service provided via the telecommunication system.
2. Modifier Usage: Append modifier 95 (Synchronous Telehealth Service Rendered Via a Real-Time Interactive Audio and Video Telecommunications System) to the CPT code. While the GT modifier may be accepted, 95 is increasingly preferred.
3. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to regulatory guidelines outlined in the AMA CPT codebook, including:

• Medically necessary services.
• Established patient-initiating service inquiry.
• Single-use of CPT code per patient in any seven days.
• Service duration exceeding five minutes.
• Exclusive use for evaluative services; non-evaluative services billed separately.
• No double counting time with other services.
• Delivery via HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform.

Additional Information

• The Medicare Fee Schedule indicates reimbursement rates may vary between $16 to $55 per unit based on the specific code and service duration.
• Private insurers may offer reimbursement rates higher than those provided by Medicare.
• Services must be provided through a HIPAA-compliant system to ensure patient privacy and data security.

Challenges for Remote Consultations Billing

Chiropractors face several challenges when transitioning from face-to-face consultations to remote consultations, particularly in terms of billing. Here are some key challenges and tips to address them:

Challenge 1: Insurance Coverage and Reimbursement

Many insurers may not cover remote chiropractic consultations or may have different reimbursement rates compared to in-person visits. This can affect the chiropractor's revenue stream.

Tip: Verify insurance coverage and reimbursement policies for telehealth services with each patient's insurance provider in advance. Also, patients need to be educated about potential out-of-pocket costs and explore alternative payment options if necessary.

Challenge 2 : Documentation Requirements

Remote consultations may require additional documentation to meet regulatory and insurance requirements, which can be time-consuming and complex.

Tip: One can implement a streamlined documentation process tailored explicitly for remote consultations. For instance, electronic health record (EHR) systems with templates designed for telehealth visits can be utilized to ensure compliance and efficiency.

Challenge 3 : Technological Challenges

Technical issues such as poor internet connection, audio/video lag, or platform compatibility can disrupt the consultation and impact the quality of care. As a result, chiropractors are challenged to account for the complete reimbursement amount.

Tip: One can conduct a test run with patients before their appointment to troubleshoot technical issues. Furthermore, clear instructions can be provided on preparing for the remote consultation, including ensuring a stable internet connection and using compatible devices.

Challenge 4: Patient Engagement and Communication

Building rapport and effectively communicating treatment plans and instructions can be more challenging in a remote setting. So is the journey for submitting claims for such remote consultations to the insurers.

Tip: The best way out is to use video conferencing tools to enhance visual communication and maintain a personal connection with patients. Also, one can encourage active participation from patients by asking questions, addressing concerns, and providing educational materials electronically.

Challenge 5: Billing and Coding Compliance

Properly coding remote consultations for billing purposes can be confusing, as different insurers may have varying requirements and guidelines.

Tip: There is a need to stay updated on the latest billing and coding guidelines specific to telehealth services. Work closely with billing staff or consultants to ensure accurate coding and documentation, reducing the risk of claim denials or audits.

Challenge 6: Security and Privacy Concerns

Transmitting sensitive patient information over electronic channels raises cybersecurity and privacy concerns, adding another challenge to the billing process.

Tip: One should use secure telehealth platforms that comply with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations to safeguard patient data. In fact, encryption protocols, access controls, and other security measures can be implemented to protect confidentiality.

One-Stop Solution: 24/7 Medical Billing Services!

Outsourcing chiropractic billing to 24/7 Medical Billing Services provides comprehensive support for chiropractors dealing with various health plans, including Medicare. Their experienced team ensures that all documentation requirements are met and maximizes reimbursement by offering benefits verification services, timely claims filing, and aggressive follow-up with payers. They specialize in navigating the complexities of No Fault or Workmen’s Compensation claims, offering tailored assistance to chiropractors.

By seamlessly integrating with chiropractic offices and ensuring the accurate handling of daily information flow, their streamlined onboarding process guarantees that all necessary billing documentation is in place from the outset. So, what are you waiting for? Contact the 24/7 Medical Billing Services team to relieve your administrative burden and enhance your practice's bottom line.