Scheduling Remote Cardiac Rhythm Monitoring

Patients with implantable cardiac devices can be followed remotely through each device manufacturer’s home monitoring portals. This is an effective way to maintain a high level of patient care even when they can’t come into the office, although it can be cumbersome to use 4 different websites to manage one patient population. 

Many of these devices can automatically alert you when they detect something that needs attention. One less thing to worry about between device checks, and a good way to prevent unnecessary hospitalizations.

Keys to Success

You need to plan carefully to run a successful remote device clinic. Make sure you allocate enough time to review device transmissions, communicate with patients and document your findings. Do you review weekly? Monthly? What about unexpected alerts and transmission? You’ll need to understand how often a device can be followed to develop an effective plan.

Scheduling remote monitoring is guided by the device type, and service provided. Make sure you’re using the correct billing codes for the devices you’re following. 

Implantable Pacemakers and Defibrillators

Implantable pacemaker and defibrillator follow-ups can be billed every 91 days, or four times a year. This doesn’t leave a lot of leeway for scheduling. A common challenge is checks that fall on weekends or holidays and throw off your schedule. Do you have a plan to handle remote device follow-ups?

Implantable Cardiac Monitors and Loop Recorders

Implantable cardiac monitor and implantable loop recorder follow-ups can be billed every 31 delays. You’ll need to schedule carefully to follow your patient 12 times a year. Defibrillators with HF diagnostics present extra scheduling headaches. When do you bill for what?

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Disclaimer: 

The analysis of any medical billing or coding question is dependent on numerous specific facts — including the factual situations present related to the patients, the practice, the professionals and the medical services and advice.

Additionally, laws and regulations and insurance and payor policies (as well as coding itself) are subject to change. The information that has been accurate previously can be particularly dependent on changes in time or circumstances.

The information contained in this web site is intended as general information only. It is not intended to serve as medical, health, legal or financial advice or as a substitute for professional advice of a medical coding professional, healthcare consultant, physician or medical professional, legal counsel, accountant or financial advisor.

If you have a question about a specific matter, you should contact a professional advisor directly.