Practice ManagementUse this hub as a starting point for information, guidance and resources on the business, regulatory and practice operations aspects of your practice. Contents
Practice Establishment & OperationsIntended for new physicians and practice startups The American Academy of Osteopathy has developed a “Physicians Resource Guide” (continually updated) to provide information and assistance to physicians early in their careers for establishing, growing and managing successful practices. This guide has been developed with the osteopathic physician in mind to help support a practice that encompasses osteopathic manual medicine, whether they have a manipulation-based practice, a primary care practice or a specialty practice with a manipulation component. Physician Resource Guide
Billing, Coding & ReimbursementYour core library for getting paid correctly Accurate reporting of OMT relies on selecting the correct CPT code based on the number of body regions treated. This overview outlines how to pair OMT with E/M services when appropriate, the proper use of Modifier 25, and the documentation needed to support clean claims. Billing & Coding for OMT
E/M coding now centers on Medical Decision Making or total time, making clarity in documentation more important than ever. This section breaks down the updated criteria for selecting visit levels, outlines the current time thresholds, and explains how E/M services can be billed alongside OMT when the requirements for Modifier 25 are met. Evaluation & Management (E/M) Services
Modifier 25 defines when an E/M service is significant and separately identifiable from a procedure performed during the same encounter, including OMT. The guidance here brings together CMS and CPT criteria so you can recognize when exceptions apply and code both services confidently and correctly. Modifier 25
Understanding the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule is essential for determining reimbursement rates and billing rules for physician services. This summary highlights how to navigate the CMS lookup tool to verify payment amounts, RVUs, and policy indicators that guide compliant billing. CMS Physician Fee Schedule
Telehealth rules for 2026 introduce major permanent changes, expanding coverage, simplifying processes, and emphasizing correct location reporting. This summary outlines the new telehealth structure, key additions to the Medicare Telehealth List, and the documentation practices needed to stay compliant across different payer requirements. Telehealth Services
Medicare & Payer PoliciesStay compliant with the latest regulations The CY 2026 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule introduces major shifts in Medicare payment, including dual conversion factors for APM participants, a new efficiency adjustment to work RVUs, and broad telehealth expansions. It also updates practice expense methodology, advances behavioral health and digital treatment policies, and outlines ongoing reforms in global surgical packages, drug inflation rebates, and rural health clinic payments. CY 2026 MPFS Final Rule
MedLearn Matters is CMS's official educational resource that translates complex Medicare policies into clear, usable guidance for providers and billing professionals. It delivers updates on coverage rules, coding changes, documentation expectations, and common billing errors to support accurate claims and compliance. MedLearn Matter
MedPAC is an independent congressional agency that analyzes Medicare’s payment systems, access to care, and program performance, providing evidence based recommendations to Congress. Its research and reports frequently shape legislative and regulatory changes, helping guide the future direction of Medicare policy. MedPAC
This reference article outlines the coding, documentation, and medical necessity requirements that support proper billing of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment under Medicare. It clarifies when E M services may be billed separately, describes required TART findings, and sets expectations for treatment frequency, clinical justification, and functional outcomes. Billing and Coding: Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment
Appeals & Denials Management - How to challenge incorrect claim denials.
Audit & ComplianceProtect your practice from financial risk How to Respond to a Medical Records Request explains the proper steps and best practices for handling payer or government documentation requests to ensure compliance and protect patient privacy. Audit Preparation & Response Guide
Audit Checklist provides a structured tool to help you prepare for internal or external audits, verify coding accuracy, and identify potential compliance risks before they lead to financial penalties. Audit Checklist
SOAP Notes offers guidance and templates for creating clear, compliant clinical documentation that supports accurate coding, effective patient care, and successful audit outcomes. Updated forms coming soon. SOAP Note Clinical Documentation
Integrating OMM into PracticePractical advice for delivering osteopathic care A well designed schedule creates consistency, protects physician energy, and supports high quality patient care. This guide outlines a tiered scheduling model, built in buffers, and streamlined workflows that help solo and small OMT practices maintain efficiency, prevent burnout, and support accurate documentation and billing. Benefits & Scheduling
Clear patient communication is essential for building trust and setting expectations around osteopathic care. This resource provides practical scripts for introducing your practice philosophy, explaining how OMT works, and helping patients understand the connection between structure, function, and the body’s natural ability to heal. Patient Education
Marketing & Practice GrowthStrategies to build your patient base Building strong referral networks through professional relationships and community outreach can significantly expand your patient base. A dedicated physician liaison can promote your services, attract new referral sources, and enhance your reputation among local providers, while educational events like Grand Rounds position you as an expert in your field. Connecting with your community helps raise awareness of osteopathic care and attract new patients unfamiliar with your practice. Volunteering, presentations, and patient education materials encourage word-of-mouth growth and establish your presence locally. Clear communication about reimbursement options and your treatment approach helps foster patient trust and long-term loyalty. View our Physician Resource Guide to learn more. Physician Resource Guide
Resources & Member SupportGet expert help when you need it The AAO has partnered with Sunrise2Sunrise Home Services (SR2) to help members address practice management challenges such as claims denials, documentation, and coding. SR2 brings over 20 years of expertise in reimbursement policies, CPT coding, and osteopathic billing support to provide personalized guidance and solutions for AAO members. For additional information, email the AAO at [email protected] or call the office at 317-879-1881. Definitions
External Resources, convocation lectures, and official guidelines Resource Library
Disclaimer: These resources are for informational purposes only and are based on summaries from multiple sources. We strongly recommend consulting the original source material from CMS or your legal/compliance advisor to ensure accuracy and compliance.
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