Using The Right Medical Billing Code For Home Dialysis
By Melissa Clark, Sat Dec 10th

Using The Right Medical Code For Home Dialysis

A simple, but crucial medical change has recentlyoccurred. Beginning on October 1, 2005, the Medicare durablemedical equipment regional carrier (DMERC) will no longer acceptthe diagnosis code 585.0. Instead of using ICD-9 585.0, medicalbilling should be done with the ICD-9 code 585.6 for homedialysis charges.

The code 585.0 means chronic renal failure. This code has nowbeen discontinued and the DMERC will no longer be lenient on thecode. The more descriptive code, 585.6 (end stage renal disease)much more accurately describes the diagnosis for home dialysis.It is important that your medical staff note thischange. Failure to do so will result in unpaid future claims.

Situations like this depict the necessity to hire an outsidemedical firm. Many mistakes can be avoided by hiring oneof these companies. Medical companies employ highlyskilled individuals who are trained,



certified, and updated oncurrent medical billing/coding practices. By hiring thesecompanies you are relieving your practice from theresponsibility of training and updating your own medical billingpersonnel on changes.

Another advantage to using a medical firm is the timethey free up for your personnel to work one-on-one withpatients. The less time your staff spends on medical billing,the more time you can focus on customer service. This is anadded bonus because the essence of medical care is centeredaround trust. In order for your patients to trust you, you mustbuild up a rapport.

The change to the home dialysis medical code may besimple, however, there are many other medical changesthat are not so simple. It is very important to keep up with allmedical changes to ensure proper reimbursement for thefuture of your practice.

About the author:Melissa Clark, CCS-P is President and Director of Medical BillingServices for Outsource Management Group, LLC, a leadingnational medical firm.

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