Rehab

New specialty code for SLPs

Rehab Regs, March 20, 2009

CMS developed a new non-physician practitioner specialty code, specialty code 15, to categorize SLP services, according to a February 20 transmittal. This is an important step toward allowing SLPs to bill Medicare as private practitioners. 


Providers and suppliers use specialties codes to enroll in Medicare and ensure claims are processed and paid appropriately. The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 revised the Social Security Act to allow SLPs to apply for enrollment as suppliers beginning July 1, 2009, which is also the effective date for specialty code 15. This amendment to the Social Security Act will allow SLPs in private practice to bill Medicare directly for services provided.

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