Advancing Neuromuscular, Musculoskeletal, & Electrodiagnostic Medicine



2013 Coding Changes: Resources and Plans

2013 Final Conversion Factor Graph CMS has set the 2013 relative value units (RVUs) for electrodiagnostic codes. While most EMG codes are set to increase, nerve conduction study (NCS) codes are significantly reduced, primarily due to changes in practice expense. The impact to EDX practices averages about 50% for standard procedures. The table (click on the picture to expand or download it as a PDF) shows the RVU and reimbursement reductions for some standard EDX procedures, using the AANEM’s recommended policies.
Click here to expand graph

2013 Coding Toolkit

To help EDX providers understand the impact of these changes to their practice, the AANEM has developed a coding toolkit that includes several resources, including:
  • 2013 Coding Changes Fact Sheet: Learn the latest information, our work with CMS, and outcomes of appeals.
  • RVU Impact Calculator: Determine how RVU changes impact your practice.
  • Medicare Fee Schedule for EDX Codes: Understand RVU and related information used in the determining of Medicare payment amounts.
  • Crosswalk from 2012 to 2013 CPT Codes: Avoid coding mistakes when transitioning from 2012 to 2013 code sets.
  • 2013 Code Changes Webinar: Listen to a free recording of the webinar, download the slide deck, and use questions and answers from attendees.
  • Appeal Letters: Use these letters to appeal claims denials.
This toolkit is accessible to members by logging into your account. It will be updated on an ongoing basis.

Visit the toolkit

Coding Resources

AANEM provides coding resources to support daily practice decisions and business needs and works to ensure that CPT codes accurately reflect the work performed by electrodiagnostic consultants. Increase your coding knowledge and maximize your reimbursement with AANEM coding resources.

2012 Coding Guide CD
List of Nerves
2013 Coding Changes Toolkit
 
These documents may be useful when communicating with a payer about a claim denial.
Billing for Same Day Evaluation and Management and Electrodiagnostic Testing

2013 Coding Advocacy

2013 Coding Changes
The AANEM is working with its partners, including the American Academy of Neurology and the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, to communicate with CMS about the significant impact its RVU decisions will have on patient access and quality care. It also has reached out to patient groups and others who might be affected by these reductions.

Write a letter to your Representative
AANEM Sends Coalition Letter to Congress

General Advocacy
The AANEM works with national organizations to shape reimbursement policies and advocates for its members through its involvement in the American Medical Association's Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and Relative Value Scale Update Committees (RUC).

The AANEM Policy Department routinely reviews and comments on Correct Coding Initiative (CCI) edits, physician work values, and proposed and final rules issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS).

These activities help ensure that CPT codes and reimbursement rates accurately reflect the work performed by electrodiagnostic physicians.