PROPER CODING AND BILLING FOR OFFICE SERVICES

The information revolution has effected tumultuous change in the profe ss by which physicians receive compensation for their services. In an effort to predict and control costs, a labyrinthine coding system, tog ether with multilayered rules and regulations, has been developed to p inpoint medical function. Computerization of the insurance industry al lows vigilant scrutiny of the physicians claims. Since noncompliance w ith payment rules now carries legal or monetary consequences, physicia ns need to pay careful attention to payer methodology, not only to ful fill the requirements of the law but also to receive accurate and opti mal reimbursement. This article is designed to help practitioners unsc ramble these exacting mandates and stay in alignment.