Rheumatology practices should begin working on a compliance plan for self-audits on documentation. In an effort to prepare practices for the tremendous work ahead, the ACR has various programs in place to assist physicians and their staff in understanding the documentation and coding guidelines through face-to-face presentations at state society meetings, chart reviews, and the Rheumatology Coding Manual (available at www.rheumatology.org/publications). Also, don’t miss the practice management session, “RAC & Roll,” at the ACR/ARHP Annual Scientific Meeting in Chicago. This session will provide attendees with specific information on identifying key risk areas that are under the microscope of the RAC and how to prepare and survive any audit.
Have questions about the CMS RAC program and how it might affect your practice? Want to know what the necessary elements to meet documentation requirements are? Contact Melesia Tillman, CPC, CRHC, CHA, ACR coding and reimbursement specialist, at mtillman@rheumatology.org or (404) 633-3777, ext. 820.