For the better part of two years, the 2016 presidential election has captured the nation’s attention and dominated the local, state, and national news. Now that the dust has settled from this election, it’s time for the Academy to identify and pursue our legislative and regulatory priorities for the upcoming year. In addition to a new Presidential Administration, the 115th Congress will begin on January 3, 2017. As policymakers move into new roles, now is the time for the audiology community to jump into action.
Topic(s): Advocacy, audiology, Political Action Committee (PAC)
Did you know that at the end of 2016, the Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS) ended and was replaced by CMS’ new Quality Payment Program (QPP)? This means that 2016 was the final year in which providers, including audiologists, were eligible to participate in the PQRS program.
Topic(s): Coding, Reimbursement
Many of you may be familiar with, or may have even used, the Academy’s e-mail box for submitting coding, reimbursement, and compliance-related questions. This centralized mailbox (reimbursement@audiology.org) allows the Academy’s Coding and Reimbursement Committee (CRC) to review and discuss all inquiries posed to the Academy. The CRC is able to research, discuss, and vet responses to questions received. Having a centralized system for answering questions serves many purposes.
Topic(s): Coding, Reimbursement, Advocacy
Members of the American Academy of Audiology’s Coding and Reimbursement Committee (CRC) and the Practice Policy Advisory Council (PPAC) often collaborate with other audiology organizations, including the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the Academy of Doctors of Audiology (ADA), to develop coding guidance based on frequently asked questions (FAQs). Most recently, the groups worked together to create guidance addressing various issues related to coding and reimbursement for audiology services.
Topic(s): Coding, Reimbursement
