[imapatient]

I have a really, really technical set of questions about using Medicare.

I'm seeing a T who isn't a Medicare provider. Seem oblivious to what the rules are.

I've come across that there are types of providers called non-participating who can still be paid from Medicare. Or the patient is paid and then pays the provider. They don't have to be signed up as a Medicare provider.

Medicare defines two classes of psychologists (who have doctoral degrees) who can be non-participating. Forget the other meanings of “clinical P” for this purpose; Medicare has created its internal definition for billing polices.

1. Clinical psychologists. They are subject to a slightly different reimbursement schedule than normal. 2. Independent billing psychologists. They meet the same professional criteria and must be independent practices of any clinic, organization, HMO, etc.

Only the 2nd type can have payments assigned to go to the patient, i.e. the patient is required--if the T wants--to pay all up front. Then get Medicare reimbursement.

I want to use my Medicare coverage and it seems it can happen given his status, but he'd need to agree to become a non-participating provider (not an involved process at all).

Does anyone know about this stuff and hopefully--have info on a resource to consult to get solid advice and info?