How to Minimize Claims Errors in DME Billing

The Correct Approach to DME Billing

Billing for Durable Medical Equipment and Prosthetic & Orthotic Supplies, an area of medical billing often conveniently abbreviated as DMEPOS billing, or simply DME billing, is not very different from billing for other healthcare services. And yet, there are two significant differences. The first of these is, DME items are often available on rental. The second, DME billing requires the use of HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System) codes which help to identify the billed item or service provided at the time of submitting the claim.

It is often noticed that in spite of the best intentions, errors in DME billing result in overturned claims, multiple resubmissions and even, lost collections. In an attempt to minimize errors, DME billers and coders can introduce a regular auditing of the billing process. It is advisable to develop and maintain an audit ready process to minimize potential claim errors. Here are five tips that can help get one started:

  1. Review the current claims process (from intake to submission)
  2. Review denial rates, and the reasons for denial
  3. Conduct a self-audit and look for potential errors
  4. Analyze and make any necessary changes
  5. Repeat the process regularly

Using Specialized Assistance for Improved Outcome

In a bid to reduce errors and streamline the entire DME billing process, a large number of DME providers often employ specialized external assistance. Key billing tasks are often outsourced to dedicated, third-party personnel who provide quick and professional assistance from a remote location. The offshore location of such personnel and the remote working model, both contribute to a more efficient billing process at a remarkably lower cost.

Specialized intervention from a competent medical billing company can bring a host of benefits with it. It not only helps to get the job done quickly and smoothly, but can actually minimize errors, reduce denials and therefore, increase collections. This is usually achieved by dint of the fact that these specialized billing service providers employ highly streamlined processes, with stringent quality control measures and regular auditing. Add to that their highly competitive rates and ready availability, and it’s easy to understand why an increasing number of healthcare providers across the U.S. are signing up for their assistance.