Mental Health & Substance Abuse coding

[Tonda]

I have recently started working part-time mental health & substance abuse counseling center as a medical biller. I have done medical billing for 4 years but mainly for Family Medicine & Internal Medicine so some of this is new to me. Is there anything I sould be aware of that is different when billing for mental health & substance abuse? I notice that most carriers have different benefits, customer service numbers, and claims address for MH/SA. The person that did the billing before I did left the position suddenly and she was not organized. I have had to train myself on the process here. They do not have a medical management system so I have to build a database just so I have the info I need for billing. They basicly file all claims by logging into the carriers website and completing claims. I will gladly accept any advice.

 

[Laureen]

I don't have off hand knowledge but hopefully someone else on the forum does. Best wishes!

 

[SharpenedPencil]

I do some volunteer work with coding and recently helped someone trying to get reimbursed for a child who sees a LCSW. If you are doing billing for someone on your staff with this credential, I just wanted to bring to your attention that there were some changes put into place 1/1/13 and codes have changed. It's smart of you to network. I think that someone was starting a group over on the AAPC forums for psychiatry/mental health. Might be worth checking out. Good luck!

 

[SharpenedPencil]

Here you go: http://www.aapc.com/memberarea/forums/showthread.php?t=66530&highlight=psychiatry+group

 

[SKBROWN LLC]

As a behavioral health medical biller, I would suggest using Office Ally to assist you in billing. I use it and I love it!!!
Make sure you verify behavioral health coverage prior to session, and always get per-authorization. If you have any questions or get stuck on anything shoot me an email, I would be glad to assist you.