Chronic care management coding for neurologists.

Chronic care management provides a way for neurologists to code for time spent by clinical office staff who coordinate services for patients with major chronic illnesses. Medicare allows payment for one such code; some third party payers accept 2 additional codes. When using these codes, the physician develops a Care Plan that organizes the patient's medical and psychosocial needs. Clinical office staff communicates among the patient's physicians, therapists, community services, the patient, family, and caregiver. The patient chooses only one physician whose office provides these coordination services. Rules include 24/7 access for urgent phone contact and use of an electronic health record system.