New ABN Mandatory for Use Beginning March 1, 2009

The most recent ABN released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) was published in March 2008 and was previously required for use by Sept. 1, 2008. The date for implementation has now changed. The new ABN form is mandatory for use by March 1, 2009. Among other changes, the new form may be used for non-covered services, or anything that is NOT spinal CMT (CPT codes 98940, 98941, 98942). This includes exams, modalities, x-rays, labs, etc. This version of the ABN will also eliminate the need for the previous Notice of Exclusion from Medicare Benefits (NEMB) form, which was considered OPTIONAL by CMS. For more information, visit the ABN portion of the ACA Web site at: additional ABN information