Thursday, April 3, 2014

Medicare Part B News-Jurisdiction H for April 3rd, 2014

The following information is brought to you by Novitas Solutions.

Medicare News

President Obama Signs the Protecting Access to Medicare Act of 2014
On April 1, 2014, President Obama signed into law the Protecting Access to Medicare Act of 2014. This new law prevents a scheduled payment reduction for physicians and other practitioners who treat Medicare patients from taking effect on April 1, 2014. This new law maintains the 0.5 percent update for such services that applied from January 1, 2014 through March 31, 2014 for the period April 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014. It also provides a zero percent update to the 2015 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) through March 31, 2015. More information can be found here.


MLN Connects Provider eNews for April 3, 2014
Please take note of the articles included in the Claims, Pricers and Codes section of this edition:
  • Appeals for Cancelled Claims Related to Medicare Beneficiaries Classified as “Unlawfully Present" in the U.S. 
  • Mandatory Payment Reduction of 2% Continues through March 31, 2015, for the Medicare FFS Program — “Sequestration” 
  • Adjustment of Community Mental Health Center Claims for Telehealth Originating Facility Fees 
  • Incorrect Overpayments and Denials for Some New Patient Visit Claims 

New Medicare Insights Weekly Podcasts Now Available
In this week's Medicare Insights Weekly podcast we cover submitting medical records by disc and the addition of Telehealth services to the Reference Manual. We also introduce you to the Novitas Educational Tips and Tools. This is a program you can't miss. Podcast information and subscription can be found here.


Part B Webinar Handout: "Part B Medicare Updates-2014 Second Quarter"
April 3, 2014 (10:00am-11:00am ET, 9:00am-10:30am CT)
Attention! Attention! You must register for the 2014 Second Quarter Medicare Updates now! This session will provide a clear understanding of the changes in Medicare and assist you with staying compliant with new Medicare guidelines. We will provide you with educational information and resources that will both explain the Comprehensive Error Rate Testing (CERT) Program and provide tips on preventing common errors. You will learn to identify and promote the use of self service options as well as preventive services. You do not want to miss this informative event!


The JH Part B Top Inquiries Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) December 2013-Febuary 2014
The JH Part B Top Inquiries Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) have been updated. Please visit our FAQs for the answers to your questions.