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An Overview of the Division 3 Reimbursement Committee and the 2006 Reimbursement Survey

Department of Communication Disorders, Auburn University
Auburn, AL

Sandy Schwartz

Rangos School of Health Sciences, Department of Speech Pathology, Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, PA

Edie R. Hapner

Emory Voice Center, Emory University
Atlanta, GA

It became apparent in 2006 from communication with affiliates and from posts to the Division 3 listserv that clinicians treating disorders of voice/upper airway and resonance were in need of correct coding information and a resource to ask billing and coding questions. The Division 3 Steering Committee sought affiliates with knowledge of correct coding and reimbursement specific to the treatment of voice disorders. A Reimbursement Committee was selected and charged with the task of determining affiliate knowledge. Methods: A 39-item multiple choice survey was distributed online via SurveyMonkey. Participants were recruited from the Division 3 e-mail list. Results: A total of 324 affiliates responded, providing a 24 % response rate. Survey information regarding the demographics, practice settings, practice parameters, and coding knowledge is presented. Discussion: Affiliates are treating voice disorders through the lifespan therefore information on billing for voice and other upper aero digestive problems from pediatrics through geriatrics is an important goal for the newly created reimbursement committee. There is a need to assist affiliates with correct coding information, documentation to meet guidelines and maximize reimbursement, and support for affiliate questions that guarantees dissemination of correct, up-to-date information from reimbursement expects.