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Dilemmas In Practice |
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Many of us have "dilemmas" that occur in our dietetic practice settings; this article will
address, offer possible solutions, or stimulate some discussion. Our experiences and the
way in which we react to them can be helpful to someone facing a "dilemma".
How many hours of MNT will Medicare Cover for Diabetes and Pre-End Stage Renal Disease?
Medicare has finalized a National Coverage Determination. The first year a
patient/client may receive 3 hours of MNT. It can be divided at the discretion
of the dietitian. If the initial visit is 60 minutes or 97802-4, then you could
divide the subsequent time into 30 minute sessions or 45 minute session. whatever
you recommend. The 97802 MNT code is an INITIAL visit code and can be used only
once for a Medicare recipient. After that the 97803 code should be used with the
appropriate number of units (e.g. 97803-2 for subsequent session for 30 minutes).
In the second year the patient/client can access 2 hours of MNT. The session
times can be determined by the dietitian.
Timely tip: Bill Medicare Part B
your usual and customary charge. However, dietitians agreed to accept
"assignment". This means that you will accept Medicare's fee as full
payment. Medicare fees are based on geographical location. This information
can be obtained from
the ADA website.
Do not forget to collect the patient/client's co-pay at the time of the visit.
If you would like to comment on this topic or offer suggestions for future topics,
email Susanne Consiglio,
MDA's Quality Management Team Chair.
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