Making a Plan of Care for Patients with Cognitive Decline and Dementia

Cognitive decline, including Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, can be difficult and time consuming to discuss with patients. Although in-depth care planning is beneficial for all, this type of service has not been covered under Medicare - until recently.  CPT® code 99483 provides reimbursement for a clinical visit that results in a comprehensive care plan, allowing you to deliver services that can contribute to a higher quality of life for your patients.  Clinicians who can be reimbursed under the code include physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists and certified nurse midwives.  Care planning for individuals with dementia is an ongoing process and a formal update to a care plan should occur at least once per year or when indicated by disease progression.

Click this link for additional information on care planning and the CPT® code 99483:
https://www.alz.org/professionals/health-systems-clinicians/care-planning

Diagnosis, Treatment an Management of Dementia:
https://www.alzmassnh.org/hospital/physician-cme-course/

For more information, contact:
Peter Baker, LCSW, Program Director
Alzheimer's Association, Maine Chapter
207-772-0115 x9691  1-800-272-3900   pbaker@alz.org