In this episode, co-hosts Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez dive into the major changes impacting Medicaid and Medicare Advantage plans. They explore proposed Medicaid budget reconciliation changes, including work requirements, increased eligibility documentation, and reduced state autonomy, and their impact on physicians and vulnerable patient populations. Phoebe sheds light on the intensified Medicare Advantage audits, with CMS hiring 2,000 additional reviewers to address fraud, waste, and abuse, targeting an estimated $17 billion in overpayments. 

Telemedicine physicians will learn how to safeguard their practice through proper documentation, understanding medical necessity, and avoiding pitfalls like upcoding or AI-driven coding errors. This episode is a must-listen for physicians working with federal healthcare programs or exploring entrepreneurial opportunities in telemedicine.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

1. Strengthen Documentation Practices – Ensure all services meet medical necessity criteria as outlined in Medicare Advantage provider manuals and state policy letters to avoid audit-related penalties.
2. Understand Audit Implications – Recognize that Medicare Advantage audits can directly affect providers, particularly for issues like upcoding or kickbacks, and partner with compliant health plans to minimize risks.
3. Stay Informed on Policy Changes – Keep up with Medicaid and Medicare Advantage policy updates, especially around work requirements and potential face-to-face visit rules, to adapt your telemedicine practice and ensure financial sustainability.
   
   About the Show:
   Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine.
   
   About the Hosts:

• Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health.
• Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.
  Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:
  https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/ 
  [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with.

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