If you or your patients were affected by Hurricane Gustav, there are special condition codes for disaster-related claims. CMS provided the new information this week for providers who need to bill Medicare during, and immediately after a hurricane emergency. Initially sparked by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, CMS issued Change Request 4106, a “National Modifier and Condition Code to be used to Identify Disaster Related Claims.” CMS confirmed that these modifiers and condition codes can be used for emergency claims related to Gustav. For specific information on how to bill, providers should go to the CMS MLN Matters Web site.
 
Medicare beneficiaries who have been displaced and who are without access to their usual suppliers should call 1-800-Medicare for information regarding suppliers serving their current location. Alternatively, if beneficiaries have access to the Internet, they may go to the Medicare Web site.

CMS also confirmed that for providers who are still rendering some services, or who are taking steps to be able to render services again, accelerated or advance payments may be available. Providers in this position should contact their fiscal intermediary, carrier, or MAC for details.