What’s Really Happening With Prior Authorizations in Dermatology?

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Prior authorizations in dermatology are becoming more complex, more restrictive, and more time-consuming, leading to increased claim delays and revenue disruption. As biologics, specialty drugs, and advanced dermatologic procedures become more common, payers are tightening approval requirements. This shift is directly affecting dermatology billing , reimbursement timelines, and administrative workload. Understanding the current landscape is critical for protecting practice revenue. Why Are Prior Authorizations Increasing in Dermatology? The rise in prior authorizations in dermatology is largely driven by high-cost biologics and specialty treatments. Key factors include: Expensive biologic therapies Step therapy requirements Formulary restrictions Increased payer cost control strategies Because dermatology treatments often involve long-term therapy, payers apply strict review standards before approving coverage. How Are Prior Authorizations Impacting Dermatology ...
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Correct Use of Modifiers for Podiatry Services

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Improper use of Modifiers for Podiatry Services can be the cause of claim denials just as not using a modifier can be. When using modifiers, make sure you clearly understand what the modifier entails. Sometimes, there are related services that the physician is performing, global periods to contend with, etc. Modifiers will clarify extenuating circumstances, which should allow for payment when they otherwise may not.

If the insurance company denies a claim and you rebill it by simply choosing another modifier and hoping that is the correct one, this will usually end up creating additional problems. Insurance companies may have a time limit as to how long you can file an appeal. If you continually rebill incorrectly, then by the time you send in the claims and subsequently get denied again, you may run out of the appeal window. The appeal window generally starts when you submit the initial claim. Medicare explanation of medical benefits (EOMBs) will indicate whether you can appeal a claim rather than rebill, depending on the error.

There are three specific evaluation and management (E/M) modifiers. These are the -24, -25, and -57 modifiers. Only use these modifiers with E/M services. If you append them to any other service such as a diagnostic study or procedure, the carrier will automatically deny your claim.

Modifiers for Podiatry Services are:

Modifier 24:

Unrelated Evaluation and Management by the same physician during a postoperative period. When an unrelated E/M service is performed by the same physician during the postoperative (global period -10 or 90-day postoperative period) then append modifier 24 to the E/M procedure code. Make sure that we are not assigning the same diagnosis code which is the reason for the surgery which was performed earlier, and then there would be the chance of the claim getting denied.

To know more about the Correct Use of Modifiers for Podiatry Services, click here: https://bit.ly/3KhgRMc Contact us at info@medicalbillersandcoders.com/ 888-357-3226.

Location: United States

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