CMS 1500

     The major difference between old and the revised CMS 1500 form is the split provider identifier field which allows for the reporting of both NPI number and the corresponding Legacy number on them.  The "type of service" box was eliminated and deemed no longer required information. 

     Many items were removed from the old HCFA form including the barcode and the words "please do not staple in this area".  Some wording was changed such as "Tricare" was added above "Champus"  and "Va File #" was changed to "Member ID#" in box 1. 

     Also important is the fact that several boxes have changes in the size of the field.  This means they will print differently on the new forms.  Your software will have to accommodate these changes. 

     Some areas of the CMS1500 are shaded so that they start to look more like the UB92 forms which also changed.  Here's more information on the new UB04 claim forms.

     If you submit any 1500 forms, you will want to start checking into the changes that you will need to make.  Does your software have an update available that will accommodate the NPI number and the new CMS1500 form?  Will you be capable of entering the NPI number on your forms?  Will your forms still print inside the boxes as required? 

     When billing medical insurance claims electronically, you'll want to make sure your software and vendor are capable of reporting the NPI number in the proper format to prevent your income from coming to a screeching halt.

     I would strongly urge you not to wait until anywhere near the deadline to make sure you are ready for these changes.  Start looking into the modifications now and begin to make your plans for your office.  If you wait until the last minute it could greatly disrupt your cash flow.