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HCCIntelligence™ Webinar Recording: Putting Person ...
Webinar Q and A
Webinar Q and A
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Pdf Summary
The Health Center Collaborative Initiative (HCCI) in collaboration with the West Health Institute and Northwell conducted a discussion on utilizing telehealth to navigate COVID-19 challenges. Northwell, based in downstate NY, has adopted telehealth practices extensively, using face-to-face (F2F) visits only when necessary to change clinical management. This shift was necessitated by the severe impact of COVID-19 in that region. Future strategies may blend telehealth with F2F visits to complement care, especially for cases like evaluating skin rashes where telehealth is highly effective.<br /><br />The use of CPT 99358 for prolonged non-F2F services was clarified, emphasizing the need for meticulous documentation, linking the service to a preceding F2F or telehealth visit. Time-based criteria and clear guidelines on the usage of CPT 99358 were highlighted, especially for Chronic Care Management which cannot be reported in the same month. <br /><br />For telehealth visits, particularly those with Alzheimer's or dementia patients, the discussion pointed out the importance of involving caregivers and preparing mentally just like a regular F2F visit, using the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) as a guide. The adjustments include making the family and caregiver comfortable and using tools like iPads and smartphones for better patient engagement.<br /><br />Billing for virtual check-ins and e-visits was addressed, noting they are not considered telehealth by Medicare. Thus, the Point of Service (POS) where the service was rendered should be reported without a telehealth modifier.<br /><br />Recommendations for constructing telehealth policies were detailed, focusing on flexibility, security, and integrating telehealth into existing clinical care policies. Northwell's approach stressed flexible platforms that are secure and accessible via computers, phones, or tablets.<br /><br />Lastly, the necessity of two-way audio and video communication for billing CPT E/M codes 99347-99350 was reiterated, with permissible audio-only services limited to specific Medicare payouts. The discussion also touched upon the relaxation of HIPAA requirements for certain non-public-facing applications during the pandemic by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Additionally, it was noted that telehealth has expanded access to specialists, significantly benefiting homebound patients.
Keywords
Telehealth
COVID-19
Northwell
CPT 99358
Chronic Care Management
Alzheimer's
Dementia
EMR
Virtual Check-ins
HIPAA
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