Summary:  CPT codes often take time to be established. Many new nerve blocks are still unlisted, even though they are now used quite commonly. Providers should not be discouraged from trying new techniques just because they may be unpayable. The process of establishing new codes may be slow, but it does eventually include valuable services. T...

Summary: The anesthesia community is anxiously awaiting some word on Medicare payment rates for 2021, and providers are wondering how the second wave of COVID will affect their overall income in the coming year. Despite all this uncertainty, there remains reason for hope.There is nothing more unsettling than not knowing. That is especially true whe...

Summary: Given all the changes taking place in medicine, the specialty of anesthesia is often on the cutting edge with new approaches and strategies. Today's crisis is opioids. The response of a growing number of those in the anesthesia specialty is opioid-free anesthesia. It is a very worthy objective, but the question is whether it has more ...

Summary: If one considers the historical trend of bundling "standard of care" practices into primary services, can the bundling of acute pain service be far off? What was once a new and increasing revenue stream opportunity may one day become part of the global anesthesia payment.A review of the history of payment for medical services in the U...

Summary: The requirements for participation and billing in the teaching setting are somewhat complex and often misunderstood. Many are uncertain about what they are allowed to do and to bill. In this two-part series, we hope to provide greater compliance insight to those working with residents and student nurses.In contradistinction to the Bri...