Palmetto GBA is currently scanning paper claims using an optical character recognition process. This new process allows paper claims to be entered into their system more rapidly and minimizes the manual intervention required to correctly process the Medicare Part B claims. Below are some helpful Tips from Palmetto to aid in this process.
DO:
· * Send claims in large envelopes and unfolded.
· *Type on computerized claim forms using 10 or 12 Courier font.
· *Type within each block and not outside the block. One character out of alignment will cause the claim to be returned.
· *Submit attachments on an 8-1/2 by 11 size white paper. Type information on one side only of the attachment. Submit attached information only if necessary.
· *Item 19 – Only submit required information. If a date is submitted in Item 19, it must be either a 6-digit (MM/DD/YY) or 8-digit (MM/DD/CCYY) date.
· * Items 32 and 33 – Address must be in the following format:
First line – Enter the physician/supplier name.
Second Line – Enter the street address.
Third Line – Enter the city, state and zip code.
DO NOT:
· *Do not type an address in the upper right-hand corner of the CMS-1500 claim form. Leave the area of the bar code blank.
· *Do not tape, glue, paper clip, or staple attachments to the CMS-1500 form, leave loose.
*Do not tear, bend, or fold corners of the claim form with attachments.
· * Item 21 – Do not submit a narrative description of the ICD-9 code.
· *Item 24d – Do not submit procedure codes with negative charges.
· *Item 33 – Do not type a telephone number in the PIN and/or GRP portion of the field.
· * Do not submit more than six line items per claim. Do not compress two lines of information on line.
· *Do not highlight information. Instead, underline information on attachments that you want to bring to Medicare’s attention. If using CPT modifiers 22 or 52, underline instead of highlighting the pertinent information.
For further information contact, Palmetto GBA at their Web site, www.PalmettoGBA.com .