Opinion
Blend codes but provide pay supplement for special cases
LETTER — Posted Jan. 30, 2006
Regarding "Higher coding spurs insurer to 'blend' pay rates" (Article, Dec. 26, 2005): The current coding system is very confusing and takes a lot of office time. It seems to me there could be one standard "blended" for all office visits. For complex visits, a supplemental amount could be added. This could be revenue neutral, since the amount paid out would be the same as the old system, except the costs for doctors and insurers should be less, so everyone comes out ahead.
Jeremy E. Alperin, MD, Weslaco, Texas
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2006/01/30/edlt0130.htm.