For podiatrists, juggling patient care with the intricacies of medical billing can be an arduous ordeal. And while outsourcing billing might seem like a straightforward solution, choosing the right partner is still crucial. Mistakes are widespread: In 2016, Becker’s Hospital Review, a trade publication that concentrates on the US medical industry, found that 80% of American medical bills had some type of error in them.

A multi-specialty billing company might handle a wide variety of practices, but as generalists, they might lack the podiatry-specific experience needed to avoid mistakes while determining what your practice can benefit from the most. 

Here’s why specializing your billing with a podiatry-specific team gives your practice an edge:

1. Medicare Management

Podiatry billing for Medicare isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Each jurisdiction works with different Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs). Multi-specialty companies might lack the focus and expertise to stay ahead of these ever-evolving guidelines. Podiatry-specific billing teams, however, have mastered the details of each jurisdiction, ensuring accurate coding and compliance, preventing claim denials, and keeping your revenue flowing smoothly. 

2. Specialized Knowledge 

From diabetic care to reconstructive surgery, podiatry covers a wide array of conditions and treatments. A multi-specialty team might struggle with the specialized vocabulary, codes, or nuances of each podiatric procedure. Podiatry billing experts, on the other hand, have the advantage of experience and familiarity. They understand the differences that can help them ensure accurate coding and optimal reimbursement for every service you provide. It helps to have more than twenty years of experience, too!

3.  Regulatory Compliance 

The healthcare landscape has many regulations, and podiatry is no exception. Strong laws, anti-kickback statutes, and HIPAA privacy rules create a complex web to navigate. Podiatry billing specialists know the dos and don’ts of every podiatry-specific regulation, which means they’re well-versed in keeping your practice safe from costly audits or penalties.

4. Collaboration

Outsourcing shouldn’t feel like handing off your practice. A good billing partner should be an extension of your team, not a distant stranger. Podiatry-specific billing companies understand the unique workflow and communication needs of podiatrists. They collaborate seamlessly with your staff, ensuring timely claims submission, efficient communication, and clear reporting. Meanwhile, you stay focused on your patients, knowing your billing is in expert hands.

We can help you avoid billing errors. A Step Above Health Management Systems provides specialized podiatric medical billing services to clients nationwide. Let our firm provide your practice with a plan customized to manage all your billing needs. Please contact us at (877) 448-6233 to learn how our solution can save you money and help streamline your billing process.