Question
Where can I find official word that audiologists do not need to participate in PQRS reporting in 2017, to show to my office manager?
Answer
It is in the final rule of the MIPS program, the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System, where it shows that audiology is an ineligible provider until 2019. Go to cms.gov and look at Medicare, Merit-Based Incentive Payment System final rule for 2016, search the document for audiology, and you will find that we are on the ineligible list.
What do you do when an insurance company demands a letter of medical necessity to cover the cost of hearing aids?
In that case, you write a letter of medical necessity that explains why those hearing aids are medically necessary for the patient in front of you to participate in their own healthcare decisions and in the quality of life. In my experience, especially when the patient's coverage is linked to accident, illness or injury, you should write a letter of medical necessity, and the physician should write one as well.
Can you recommend amplification on a physician report?
Yes. The fact that amplification is an outcome does not make testing non-covered.
This Ask the Expert were taken from the course, Coding and Reimbursement Update for 2017 & Beyond - access the course here.
