Posts by Barrett Merrill
What Therapists Need to Know About the CMS-1500
For behavioral health therapists accepting Medicaid, one of the most critical documents for submitting claims is the CMS-1500 form. This standardized form is essential for tracking services and getting paid for care that’s been provided. Here’s what you need to know about it. Who Uses the CMS-1500 Form? The CMS-1500 form, also known as the…
Read MoreHow Do I Know When I’ve Outgrown My EHR?
As a behavioral health leader of a growing practice, your electronic health record (EHR) system plays a central role in how your organization runs. From clinical documentation to billing and reporting, it’s a foundational tool that should support your growth, not hold you back. But as your practice scales, you may start noticing signs that…
Read More8 Tips to Maximize Insurance Reimbursements for Therapists
As a therapist, there’s nothing worse than “low and slow” insurance reimbursement rates. However, with the right strategies, you can streamline your processes, reduce claim denials, and maximize your revenue. Here are 8 practical tips to improve your claim approval rates and minimize revenue cycle issues. 1. Verify Client Insurance Benefits Before the First Session…
Read MoreWhat is the Difference Between Medicaid and CHIP?
Navigating the world of health insurance can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding government programs like Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). For those providing behavioral health services, it’s essential to grasp the distinctions between these two programs and their role in accessibility to care. Here, we break down the key…
Read More5 Trends in Behavioral Health Medicaid for 2025
As we launch into 2025, several key trends are poised to shape the landscape of behavioral health services within Medicaid programs. Several of these trends encompass changes in documentation requirements, CMS reimbursement, health equity initiatives, the role of Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), and government budget. Staying informed about these trends is crucial for behavioral health…
Read MoreThe 7 Most Important EHR Features for Therapists Accepting Medicaid
For therapists accepting Medicaid, having the right Electronic Health Record (EHR) system is crucial. Medicaid’s stringent compliance requirements and complex billing structures mean you need an EHR that not only supports your clinical workflow but also simplifies your administrative tasks. Here are 7 of the most important features to look for in an EHR tailored…
Read MoreIs Medicaid Free?
Medicaid is a vital resource for millions of Americans, providing access to healthcare services that might otherwise be unaffordable. For those in need of behavioral health services—such as therapy, counseling, or treatment for mental health and substance use disorders—it can be a lifeline. But is Medicaid free? The answer depends on your individual circumstances and…
Read MoreHow to Assess Cost of Service Next to Cost of Staff
Running a mental and behavioral health practice requires striking a balance between providing quality care and ensuring financial sustainability. As practices grow, it’s crucial to evaluate the cost of offering specific clinical services in relation to staff expenses and the potential revenue generated through reimbursements from insurance and Medicaid. Below is a practical framework for…
Read MoreWhat Does Medicaid Cover in Behavioral Health?
Medicaid is a lifeline for millions of Americans, providing essential healthcare coverage to low-income individuals, families, and vulnerable populations. For those in need of behavioral health services, Medicaid plays a significant role in ensuring access to therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care. However, its coverage is not without limitations, and it’s important to understand both the…
Read MoreCommon Reasons Claims Are Rejected or Denied by Medicaid
For behavioral health providers accepting Medicaid, claims rejection and denial can be an overwhelming and time-consuming challenge. Frequent claim denials impact not only revenue but also the administrative workload. By understanding the common reasons for these issues and knowing how to effectively address and prevent them, providers can maintain a smoother billing process and ensure…
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