| |
Closely related to the problems of 1) data collection
and 2) identification of appropriate FTEE to be charged to BRS,
is a basic concern for accurately categorizing blind rehab services
in the accounting process. Nearly all the services currently provided
to blinded veterans do not have CPT codes. These codes are necessary
if VA is to be eligible for reimbursement under the Medicare model.
Blind rehab is not the only VA service without CPT codes. Given
VA dependence on third-party reimbursement for revenue, it is
imperative that all services provided have appropriate codes satisfying
insurance and Medicare requirements. BVA has learned that to receive
a CPT code for a service rendered, it will be necessary for VA
to apply to the American Medical Association (AMA)-- a process
we understand takes two years to complete. BVA believes it is
imperative that VA capture the workload associated with the services
provided to blinded veterans. Without CPT codes, this workload
may fall between the cracks or, worse, be more vulnerable to diminished
management support as it is deemed non-reimbursable.
This issue is national in scope but is consistently
ignored, following the whims of either network or local managers.
We understand that not all networks or facilities have implemented
the VHA computer software that will collect patient data. All
networks and facilities must implement and utilize the same tools
for data collection if there is any hope of rolling up credible
national data. Managers who fail to comply must be held accountable.
Mr. Chairman, in connection with the issue
of CPT codes, I want to draw these Committees’ attention
to HR 2870, The Medicare Vision Rehabilitation Coverage Act introduced
in 1999. Although introduced late in the first session of the
106th Congress, most of the activity occurred during the second
session and the bill will be reintroduced again early in the 107th
Congress. Under current law, services provided by blind rehabilitation
specialists are not reimbursable under Medicare. Specifically,
we are talking about those services provided by Orientation &
Mobility Specialists or Rehabilitation Teachers. Both of these
professions possess Masters Degrees in their respective fields.
Ironically, however, Medicare will reimburse Occupational or Physical
Therapists for the provision of such services. Neither of these
disciplines have the necessary education, knowledge, expertise,
or professional training to deliver these services. If severely
visually impaired and blind Americans are to be assured they will
receive essential services from qualified professionals, it is
imperative this legislation be approved. Clearly, we understand
that this bill does not fall under the jurisdiction of these Committees
but each of you may have the opportunity to vote on the question.
We urge your support for the new bill to be reintroduced soon
by Mr. Capurano. If you have not already done so, please sign
on as a cosponsor. This could be especially important to VA in
its efforts to seek reimbursement for the provision of health
care and rehabilitative services. Nearly 2000 blinded veterans
were provided comprehensive residential blind rehabilitation last
year. Should VA ever receive the authority for reimbursement from
Medicare, this represents a substantial source of revenue.
|
|
