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which insurances accept consult codes ?

**Decoding Consult Codes: Which Insurances Accept Them?**

As a healthcare professional, you’re no stranger to the complex world of medical billing and insurance reimbursement. One of the most common questions on your mind is likely: “Which insurance companies pay for consult codes?” After all, it’s crucial to know which insurance companies accept consult codes to ensure you get reimbursed for your hard work. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of consult codes and uncover which insurance companies still accept them.

**The Medicare Shift**

In 2010, Medicare marked a significant turning point by stopping the recognition of consultation codes. Instead, they began using other codes, such as office visits, emergency department visits, and initial hospital services, to pay for consultations. This change resulted in lower payments for equivalent services. While Medicare may have abandoned consult codes, some commercial plans continue to accept them. So, which insurance companies are still on board?

**Insurance Companies That Accept Consult Codes**

Here’s a list of insurance companies that accept consult codes:

* Aetna
* Amerihealth
* Amida Care
* BCBS HealthPlus
* BCBS Medicare
* Centerlight
* Cigna
* Elderplan
* Fidelis
* HealthFirst
* HIP
* HealthCare Partners
* Metroplus
* MVP
* Oxford
* Quality Health Plan
* Touchstone
* United Healthcare
* United Healthcare Community
* VNS
* Wellcare

**Vital Reminders**

* Don’t forget that Medicare stopped recognizing consult codes in 2010.
* Some commercial plans, like BCBS and UHC, still accept consult codes.
* Medicaid programs, Tricare, Work Comp, and Medicare supplements do not accept consult codes.
* When billing Medicare, physicians must use visit/outpatient or inpatient hospital evaluation and management codes for consultation services.

In conclusion, while some insurance companies still accept consult codes, it’s essential to check the policies of each payer to ensure you get paid for your services. By knowing which insurance companies accept consult codes, you can avoid billing nightmares and ensure you’re reimbursed for your hard work.