Full implementation of ICD-10 will go live on Oct. 1, 2015, and congressional leaders have confirmed there will be no further delays. The transition to ICD-10 is not just a simple update; it is a major revamping of diagnosis coding. With the complexity of coding using the ICD-10 system and the high risk of disruptions…
Coding for SI Injections with Office Visit A female patient previously diagnosed with sacroiliitis and ankylosing spondylitis returns to the office for a follow-up visit. The patient reports her lower back has been stiff and swollen for the past couple of weeks. She is currently on celecoxib and ranitidine, and mentions that she had some…
CPT codes: 99214-25, 27096, J3301 x1 ICD-9: 720.2, 720.0, 787.02 ICD-10: M46.1*, M45.9*, R11.0 This encounter is coded as 99214 because it includes: Detailed history; Comprehensive examination—eight systems counted; and Medical decision making—moderate complexity (established problem, new problem with no additional workup; new prescription drug ordered). Keep in mind, the CT guidance is an inclusive…
On July 1, 2015, the Rheumatology Research Foundation awarded more than 80 grants to a wide range of rheumatology trainees and professionals. The recipients, who submitted applications in 2014, will receive funding for essential education and training, as well as innovative research projects. Their applications were closely examined by experts in different areas of the…
There are many reasons why 15,000-plus attendees come to the ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting. For some, it’s the more than 450 educational sessions designed to boost knowledge and provide the latest information in the field of rheumatology. For others, it’s the opportunities to build connections and network with colleagues from around the world. This year’s six-day…
The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals (ARHP) invite you to submit an abstract and take advantage of the opportunity to have your work peer reviewed by experts in rheumatology. Reasons to Submit Opportunity for Publication—The Annual Meeting draws thousands of abstracts submitted by rheumatology professionals from around the…
For 30 years, the Rheumatology Research Foundation has been funding research and advancing treatments. During that time, Leonard L. Dragone, MD, PhD, received a Foundation award to help look for new strategies to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases in mouse models. Then, he was working as an assistant professor of pediatrics and immunology at the…
A 65-year-old established female patient returns to the office for a follow-up visit for her diagnosis of fibromyalgia. She complains of pain, stiffness and swelling in her left hand, elbow and neck that is persistent since her last visit. The pain is considerably worse in the morning. She denies any fevers, cough or dyspnea. The…
Take the challenge. CPT codes: 99213-25, 20553, 73120/LT Diagnosis: ICD-9 7291 ICD-10 M79.7 Coding for trigger-point injections continues to create a lot of confusion on proper coding guidelines. Keep in mind, two CPT4 codes can be used for trigger-point procedures: 20552—Injection(s); single or multiple trigger point(s), one or two muscle(s); and 20553—Single or multiple trigger…
Dear ACR and ARHP Colleagues, In 2007, the ACR created RheumPAC as the need for strong advocacy for rheumatologists and their patients and rheumatology training and research became compelling. The Government Affairs Committee was adept at developing novel ideas and strong policies, but there was a notable gap between policy and politics. RheumPAC was started…