Coding Spinal Procedures Made Easy (Audio Conference)

AUDIOCONFERENCE ON TAPE OR CD

Sponsored by JustCoding.com

presented on March 15, 2007

Spinal coding is one of the more complicated areas of CPT coding because it requires an in-depth understanding of the spine's anatomy, as well as a clinical knowledge of the procedures that the physician performs.

Get straight answers with straight documentation

Coding for spinal procedures requires a collaborative effort. Coders and physicians need to be able to communicate effectively with each other. Giving coders the confidence to ask questions without feeling intimated will help ensure accurate and compliant coding.

Confidence in coding

Listen to this 90-minute audioconference where experts Margie Scalley Vaught, CPC, CPC-H, PCE, CCS-P, MCS-P, ACS-EM, ACS-OR and Sharon Bolarakis, CPC, take you through the different areas of the spine, then walk you step-by-step through the process of coding several complicated spinal procedures. By obtaining a solid understanding of the anatomy, this will allow coders to visualize the procedure, resulting in confidence when deciphering operative notes and leading to more efficient coding overall.

Note: Participants should have their CPT Manual handy during the program.

AGENDA

1. Anatomy of the spine
1. Terminology related to the spine
2. Correct counting of levels related to surgical procedures
3. Diagram explaining regions of the spine
4. Anterior and posterior
2.  Approach: Anterior versus posterior vs. extra-cavity
3. Sample procedures
1.  Arthrodesis
2. Decompression/laminectomies
3. Corpectomies
4. Diskectomies
4. Changes for 2007
1. Total disk replacement
2. X-stop
5. Keys for documentation and terminology challenges 

  Q & A

Learning Objectives

At the end of the audioconference, you will be able to:

1. Demonstrate confidence in deciphering operative notes and counting levels of  the spine
2. Illustrate and visualize areas of the spine involved in each step of the procedure
3. Approach surgeons with informed and intelligent questions about procedures
4. Collaborate with your surgeons to gain the most reimbursement for the facility or practice

MATERIALS INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKET!

In addition to the information and advice presented during this audioconference, you'll also receive:

• A list of useful resources and references
• The ICD-9-CM codes, including from Coding Clinic
• Article(s) from JustCoding.com

These materials are provided with PDF links.

MEET THE SPEAKERS

Margie Scalley Vaught, CPC, CPC-H, PCE, CCS-P, MCS-P, ACS-EM, ACS-OR, is a healthcare consultant with Margie Scalley Vaught and Associates in Chehalis, WA. With more than 25 years of experience in the healthcare field, she performs internal audits, education, and training of physicians and office staff, as well as helps clinics establish billing and coding compliance manuals. She also presents to physician offices/groups regarding documentation and coding requirements and has provided testimony regarding correct coding issues and compliance in fraud and abuse cases. In addition, she is a recognized AAPC-approved PMCC instructor and a former national board member. Currently, she is a member of MGMA/ACMPE, BONES, AAPC, Society for Clinical Coding (SCC), PACHOM, and AHIMA. She also is a member of the North American Spine Society (NASS) and is a board member of Administrative Special Interest Group Committee.

Sharon Bolarakis, CPC, is a coding and compliance auditor for OrthoCarolina in Charlotte N.C, one of the largest orthopedic practices in the U.S. She performs evaluation and management audits for physicians and midlevel providers and provides feedback to these physicians on compliance and/or reimbursement areas. In addition to auditing Sharon, codes the surgeries for spine, physiatrist and general surgeons on a daily basis. She has written a book Auditing Evaluation and Management Coding, published by HCPro and has written various articles for HCPro's JustCoding.com and is professionally active with the American Academy of Professional Coders. Sharon is the also the founder of, and consultant with, Bolarakis Coding and Compliance.

WHO SHOULD LISTEN?

HIM directors, managers, and staff; outpatient coders; physician coders; compliance officers; appeals managers; reimbursement managers; finance directors and billing staff; insurance companies; claims managers and processors.

Purchase a tape or CD of the program and listen when you can. It's also a perfect training tool for new staff or as a refresher for veteran staff.

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