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Join industry experts Alicia and Laureen as they break down the latest CPT Code updates and the Official Guidelines. Learn how these changes impact your coding practices and keep your skills sharp!
Bonus: We’ll introduce the game-changing coding tool, Find-A-Code and get a chance to win an exclusive giveaway!
1 QPro & AAPC CEU available (Register and attend via Streamyard to get the CEU). CCO Club members, you can watch the replay and take the CEU quiz!
Attending coding update webinars provides participants with the latest information on coding practices, essential for continuing education and maintaining certifications. It also helps professionals stay informed about changes that may impact their work.
Engaging with the audience fosters a sense of community and interaction, making the presentation more enjoyable and informative. It also allows hosts to receive immediate feedback, which can enhance the quality of the session.
New codes are typically added annually, with updates reflecting the latest medical practices and technological advancements. Each year, specific areas are chosen for expansion based on their growing significance.
"Baby codes" refer to temporary codes that undergo evaluation over time. If they prove useful, they may transition to permanent status as full adult codes, highlighting the dynamic nature of the coding system and its responsiveness to medical developments.
The 2025 CPT code set introduces new codes primarily in the areas of proprietary laboratory analyses and genetic testing, as well as various emerging medical services that align with recent advancements in healthcare technology.
Education is crucial in medical coding software as it ensures users can accurately utilize the codes and stay updated on changes. Platforms like 'Find A Code' prioritize education and user feedback, making the coding process more accessible and user-friendly.
The alpha-numeric coding system enhances efficiency by enabling quicker searches and better organization within the coding database, allowing users to find relevant codes with less hassle.
Knowing the history of codes helps medical professionals accurately apply them, especially for procedures that may have undergone changes in definition, introduction, or deletion, ensuring correct billing and patient documentation.
Professionals in the coding field often struggle to keep track of newly introduced codes that come out between publication cycles, leading to confusion about when certain codes become effective.
Genetic codes are crucial because ongoing research and discoveries can lead to new insights into diseases, prompting medical professionals to conduct regular genetic testing to refine treatment strategies and better understand patients' conditions.
Prosthetic devices, such as iris implants, are used to address genetic disorders or injuries affecting eye appearance, showcasing advances in reconstructive techniques in medicine.
Understanding laterality—as procedures can be unilateral or bilateral—allows for tailored treatment plans and accurate coding for reimbursement, particularly in pain management strategies involving nerve blocks.
New technologies include MRI-guided high-intensity ultrasound for stereotactic ablation and advancements in ablation techniques for various tissues, reflecting improvements in delivering targeted treatments.
Genetic mapping provides insights into various health conditions, particularly in analyzing blood malignancies, allowing for more informed treatment decisions and identification of specific disease markers.
Annual updates to vaccines ensure they remain effective against circulating strains and variants of diseases, thus protecting the population and reducing outbreak chances. This adaptability is essential for maintaining herd immunity.
Telehealth has improved access by allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, thus eliminating barriers such as travel and scheduling conflicts. This is particularly beneficial for those with limited mobility or in underserved areas.
AI offers the advantage of analyzing large data sets rapidly and accurately, enhancing diagnostic precision, and uncovering insights that may not be apparent to human providers. This leads to better patient outcomes and more effective treatment strategies.
The neurofilament light chain test is significant as it helps detect specific neurodegenerative diseases, allowing for targeted treatment. Understanding the test's role can enhance diagnostic accuracy in clinical settings.
Providers should establish compliance protocols for the updated codes and stay informed about changes in communication technology. Regular training and updates on billing practices will also help in ensuring smooth billing processes.
The new E/M coding system allows for enhanced virtual patient care, encouraging providers to adapt their EMRs and templates. This will help streamline billing while improving patient access to services, especially for those underserved.
You can easily request specific topics by filling out the topic request form available on the CCO website. Provide as much information as possible to help the presenters understand your needs.
Club members receive priority consideration for their topic requests, giving them an advantage in shaping the content and focus of discussions and webinars relevant to their needs.
The next webinar is set for the third Thursday in January, followed by a blitz event on the second and third Saturdays of January.
CCO 2025 CPT Update Webinar in Collaboration with Find-A-Code
Audience Engagement and Participation
"Hello, everyone! We were having so much fun watching all the comments and where everybody's from."
The hosts express their excitement about the interaction with the audience as viewers share their locations in the comments. With over 1,200 people registered, they emphasize the importance of viewer feedback during the session.
They encourage comments throughout the presentation to foster a more engaged and lively discussion, making the experience enjoyable for everyone involved.
Technical Aspects and Multichannel Streaming
"We are on YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, and that’s for CCO, and Find a Code is doing this with us."
The hosts mention they are broadcasting across multiple platforms, ensuring a broad reach for their presentation. This strategy allows them to connect with a diverse audience, catering to various viewers.
They acknowledge the challenges that come with streaming such as possible glitches, but they appreciate the audience's patience and understanding in advance.
CEU Certificates and Registration Process
"You do not need to put your credentials in the chat; at the end, you’ll be given a password for a quiz to get your certificate."
The process for obtaining Continuing Education Units (CEUs) is explained clearly. Attendees only need to stay until the end to receive a password that allows them to take a quiz for certification.
The hosts assure the audience that their attendance is tracked through a registration page, and they emphasize the importance of following the prescribed process to secure their certificates.
Summary of CPT Updates for 2025
"We are doing a joint presentation on the 2025 CPT updates... It's not too bad, not too scary."
The presentation focuses on upcoming changes in the CPT coding system effective from January 1, 2025. The hosts express confidence in the material, assuring viewers it will be accessible and relevant.
They plan to highlight the significant updates while also advising attendees on how to independently navigate coding updates in the future. This approach aims to empower viewers with knowledge rather than just presenting facts.
Overview of CPT Code Changes
"We have codes that evolve from baby codes to full-grown adult codes."
The discussion highlights the transition of CPT codes, emphasizing that newer codes emerge from previously temporary or trial codes, which evolve as they prove their relevance in medical practice.
The focus of the updates discussed will pertain primarily to the new codes in the 2025 CPT code set, which consists of approximately 420 updates, with 97.2% of these being grammatical changes.
Trends in Code Adjustments
"There are trends every year on what is going to be focused on."
Trends in CPT code changes reflect ongoing developments in medical practices and technology. Each year, certain areas are earmarked for expansion or modification based on their growing significance or advances in medical procedures.
It is essential to review these trends annually to anticipate which codes will impact ongoing practices, especially for new or emerging technologies.
Importance of Education in Encoders
"Find A Code is education-driven and responsive to user feedback."
'Find A Code' is highlighted as an encoder that prioritizes education and user involvement. It is maintained with a focus on making coding accessible and understandable for professionals working in the field.
The platform's responsiveness to user requests and suggestions has led to rapid updates and improvements, showcasing its commitment to serving the coding community effectively.
Detailed Code Examination Process
"You don't need to pay for education on the changes; it's at your fingertips."
The speaker emphasizes the utilization of the ‘Find A Code’ platform to access not only the new codes for the upcoming year but also the codes from past years. This accessibility allows coders to track changes and understand the evolution of codes without incurring additional costs.
The process involves searching through different sections while highlighting the ease of navigating and identifying important code changes, significantly benefiting those who need to stay updated in their practice.
New Areas of Focus for 2025
"New areas in medicine focus on proprietary laboratory analysis and genetic testing."
The speaker indicates that a significant portion of the new codes for 2025 relates to proprietary laboratory analyses, especially for novel genetic testing which constitutes about 37% of the total updates. These changes reflect the latest advancements in medical technology.
Emerging medical services also account for a notable percentage of code updates, often involving innovations in healthcare practices, which signify a shift in what areas receive coding consideration annually.
Understanding New Coding Updates
"Find Code's new approach allows for updates to coding manuals to address codes introduced before formal publication."
The discussion highlights the challenges faced by professionals who are responsible for keeping up-to-date with the ever-changing coding landscape within their jobs. As new codes are continually introduced between the publication of coding manuals, it can create confusion regarding when specific codes actually came into effect.
The 2025 coding update is mentioned, indicating that many new codes were released in July, prior to their official introduction in coding manuals. Consequently, it's essential for professionals to be aware of these discrepancies in reporting or discussing the number of newly introduced codes.
Navigating Code History and Usage
"Users can access the code history to know its original appearance and any deletions made."
The presentation advises viewers on how to check the history of a code using the Find a Code tool. This feature provides essential details such as the initial appearance of a code and information regarding any deletions, making it an invaluable resource for professionals needing clarity on the codes they work with.
The importance of a clear understanding of the code history is emphasized, particularly for those whose work relies heavily on precise coding, such as in the medical field.
Genetic Discoveries Driving New Codes
"Every five years, genetic discoveries lead to the need for updated testing and new codes."
It is pointed out that advancements in genetics occur approximately every five years, prompting the need for patients to undergo renewed genetic testing for diseases such as epilepsy. Mentioning personal experiences can illustrate the practical implications of these updates, especially in ongoing health conditions that require regular monitoring and reevaluation.
Increased awareness of genetic codes and their implications becomes crucial as they can reveal significant breakthroughs related to various diseases and conditions, underlining the commitment to patient-centric care.
The Importance of Alpha-Numeric Codes
"Alpha-numeric coding simplifies the search process for codes within the medical database."
The transition to an alpha-numeric coding system is appreciated, as it allows for faster navigation through the coding system, making it user-friendly and efficient for professionals using the codes in their daily tasks.
This transition not only streamlines the user experience but also reflects the ongoing evolution of coding systems to adapt to emerging medical technologies and practices.
Highlighting Specific Medical Procedures and Codes
"New harvesting techniques have led to the introduction of multiple related codes for related procedures."
The detailed breakdown of harvesting skin procedures illustrates the complexity and thoroughness required in documentation and coding. Each procedure may have multiple associated codes that account for variables such as size and specific applications.
This clear structuring helps professionals understand how to properly code complex procedures, emphasizing that changes in techniques can result in several new codes being created, enhancing precision in the coding process.
Advances in Ablation Technologies
"We're getting a lot of updates in technology to be able to deliver some of these procedures."
The discussion highlights novel treatments for prostate and breast cancer, along with improvements in procedures for bladder neck and prostate conditions.
A significant focus is on advances in ablation techniques, particularly for thyroid tissue, which is separate from prostate ablation but reflects a broader trend of technological enhancements across various medical fields.
The introduction of MRI-guided high-intensity ultrasound as a means of performing stereotactic ablation exemplifies these advancements.
Emergence of Unilateral and Bilateral Procedures
"This is all done in a context of laterality, so if it says unilateral, it's one side; bilateral, both sides are being done."
As treatments evolve, there is a greater emphasis on specifying whether procedures are unilateral or bilateral.
The exploration of pain management strategies includes emerging treatments that make use of blocks to alleviate discomfort, with the implementation of codes for correct identification and reimbursement.
The concept of a medication infusion resembling an epidural illustrates the innovative approaches to pain relief, catering to individual patient needs.
Innovations in Medical Prosthetics and Imaging
"They can now go in and put a prosthetic iris in there, which includes suture fixation and the removal of the iris."
Medical advancements now allow for the implantation of prosthetic irises for various reasons, including genetic conditions affecting the appearance of pupils.
The dialogue shifts to imaging, underscoring the crucial role that imaging technologies like MRI play in patient assessments and consultations.
Insights into Genetic Mapping and Transplant Medicine
"Optical genome mapping involves using visualization techniques to analyze genetic conditions in blood malignancies."
Genetic analysis is becoming increasingly sophisticated, with techniques such as optical genome mapping revealing insights into blood-related disorders.
The attention drawn to allograph rejection in kidney transplants highlights the complexities of transplant medicine, noting that patients often retain their original kidneys during the procedure.
This section emphasizes the importance of understanding transplant rejection mechanisms to improve patient outcomes and reduce complications.
New Laboratory Test for Neurofilament Light Chain
"A new lab test has been introduced to identify neurofilament light chain (NFL)."
The neurofilament light chain (NFL) test is a novel laboratory method that helps in determining the presence of specific neurodegenerative conditions.
For those unfamiliar with NFL, it is crucial to research and understand its implications and the diseases it correlates with.
The utilization of laboratory tests like NFL can enhance healthcare professionals' diagnostic accuracy and patient care by allowing for more targeted treatment options.
Understanding Pneumonia and Test Specifications
"The term 'quantitative' vs. 'qualitative' is significant in testing, especially in pathology and lab work."
Understanding the difference between quantitative and qualitative tests is vital for accurate laboratory work.
Quantitative tests measure how much of a substance is present, while qualitative tests identify whether a substance is present.
Healthcare professionals should avoid common pitfalls such as misreading labels due to time constraints and ensure they grasp the nuances of each test type for optimal patient evaluation.
Vaccines and Administration Methods
"Annual updates to vaccines are necessary to address different strains and variants."
Vaccines are modified each year to keep up with emerging strains of illnesses such as meningitis and flu.
Awareness of how vaccines are administered—most commonly intramuscularly—is critical in practice.
It is essential for healthcare providers to remain current on the requirements and specifics of vaccine administration, as they impact patient health outcomes.
Evolution of Telehealth and Its Impact on Patient Care
"Telehealth has evolved significantly, making medical visits more accessible and user-friendly."
The integration of telehealth services has transformed the landscape of patient care, offering flexibility and broader access to medical consultations.
The advent of new codes for telehealth visits allows for proper billing and reimbursement for services rendered remotely, addressing patient needs, especially for those unable to attend in-person offices.
This evolution helps healthcare professionals establish initial connections with new patients and provide essential follow-up care to established patients, enhancing continuity of care.
The Role of AI in Modern Medicine
"Artificial Intelligence is a powerful tool that enhances medical analytics and diagnostics."
AI technologies are reshaping medical practices by facilitating the analysis of complex data, such as electrocardiograms and imaging studies, leading to more accurate diagnoses.
Increased reliance on AI allows for the detection of subtle patterns that human eyes may miss, improving patient outcomes and treatment precision.
The health sector is introducing temporary codes associated with these innovations, indicating that AI's integration into medical practices is both timely and essential for progress.
Changes to Treatment Codes and Systems
"We took those three little codes and blew them up, adding a whole new E/M system that allows us to treat patients virtually."
The video discusses significant updates to the evaluation and management (E/M) coding system, particularly impacting how healthcare providers can treat patients remotely. A new system will be implemented, which is viewed as a game changer in providing virtual care.
Providers are encouraged to prepare by updating their electronic medical records (EMRs) and templates by January 1st. This transition is anticipated to create additional revenue streams but, more importantly, enhance patient care access, particularly for those who might be underserved or “slip through the cracks.”
Focus on New Communication and Billing Codes
"If you have brief communication technology, the providers are doing so much work virtually."
Providers should pay attention to changes related to brief communication technology, which may include text messaging capabilities. A new code, 9816, focuses on ensuring that such communications are properly documented and reimbursed.
There are small updates in description codes that practitioners need to be aware of to avoid delays in reimbursement. Compliance protocols should be established for the updated codes to facilitate smooth billing processes.
New Course Offering: Patient Illness Navigator
"We developed a course that's pretty straightforward and fabulous for those taking on this new role."
A new educational course titled "Qualified Patient Illness Navigator" has been introduced, aiming to train providers in utilizing the new G23 code effective in 2024. This course is designed specifically for practitioners who will take on additional roles to support patients with new diagnoses and chronic conditions.
The course consists of nine modules and emphasizes the importance of certification to ensure staff are adequately trained, with a view to improving service delivery and preventing patients from being overlooked in the healthcare system.
Updates on Internships and Continuing Education
"We have a great internship program for those wanting to gain more experience in our education-based projects."
The organization is accepting applications for its internship program, targeting individuals aiming to enhance their coding and billing skills as well as their overall experience in the healthcare education sector.
Monthly webinars will continue, providing free Continuing Education Units (CEUs), with the next scheduled to begin in January. Participants can take part in live Q&As and receive session replays as part of their learning experience.
Engagement and Topic Requests
"Let us know what you need so that we can be relevant and help you."
Viewers are encouraged to actively communicate their needs regarding topics they want covered. This engagement is vital for the presenters to ensure that their content remains relevant and useful.
A user-friendly topic request form is available on the CCO website at cco.us/topic-request. Viewers are invited to fill out this form with as much information as possible.
Audience members can request examples relevant to their interests, such as scenarios involving telehealth coding or compliance issues. The presenters are open to exploring a variety of subjects to assist practitioners in their challenges.
Benefits for CCO Club Members
"If we know you're a club member ... you get priority."
The presenters are excited about upcoming events, including a webinar scheduled for the third Thursday in January and a blitz event planned for the second and third Saturdays of the same month.
These events offer an opportunity for ongoing education and engagement with the community, encouraging participants to mark their calendars and participate.
