Chronic Disease Management Is Not “Free” Under Obamacare

Here’s a Q&A from Kaiser Health News:

“Q. My doctor added on a charge for a “chronic disease management” appointment on top of my annual physical because I have thyroid disease and arthritis. The doctor’s office explained that my visit was more complicated than a routine physical. I’m not sure I buy that. In my case, it only cost a $20 copay, but I was surprised that it was billed that way, and it could be a surprise for someone without the excellent coverage that I have. Can they do that? ”

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“Consumers Expecting Free ‘Preventive’ Care Sometimes Surprised By Charges”

The Kaiser Health News reported “The new health-care law encourages people to get the preventive services they need by requiring that most health plans cover cancer screenings, contraceptives and vaccines, among other things, without charging patients anything out of pocket. Some patients, however, are running up against coverage exceptions and extra costs when they try to get those services.

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“A Visit To The Doctor May Mean Seeing Someone Else Instead.”

New models of clinical practice are being used in the “doctor’s office.”

A Wall Street Journal article noted: “An increasing number of practices are scrapping the traditional one-on-one doctor-patient relationship. Instead, patients are receiving care from a group of health professionals who divide up responsibilities that once would have largely been handled by the doctor in charge. While the supervising doctor still directly oversees patient care, other medical professionals—nurse practitioners, physician assistants and clinical pharmacists—are performing more functions. These include adjusting medication dosage, ensuring that patients receive tests and helping them to manage chronic diseases.”

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Many Physicians Do Not Accept Medicare!

Don’t assume your doctor takes Medicare – ask and make sure! Otherwise you may get a surprise – a bill to pay and no reimbursement!

A Wall Street Journal article explained three options physicians have with Medicare claims.

“Fewer American doctors are treating patients enrolled in the Medicare health program for seniors, reflecting frustration with its payment rates and pushback against mounting rules, according to health experts.

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