DIANNE LOU M.D., PH.D.
NPI 1104270065
Anesthesiology - Pain Medicine in San Antonio, TX

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

Dianne Lou is registered with Medicare but may not accept claims assignment. If you are a Medicare beneficiary call and confirm with the provider before seeking any services.

Dianne Lou is enrolled in PECOS and is eligible to order or refer health care services for Medicare patients. The provider is eligible to order or refer: Part B Clinical Laboratory and Imaging, Durable Medical Equipment (DME), a Home Health Agency (HHA) and Power Mobility Devices.

What is PECOS?
PECOS is the online Medicare enrollment management system or Provider, Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System. The PECOS system is a database of providers who have registered with CMS as providers or suppliers. PECOS is the primary source of information about verified Medicare professionals. Providers that want to participate in this program need to enroll in PECOS with their NPI number to avoid denied claims.

• Is the provider registered in PECOS? Yes

• PECOS PAC ID: 2163715673

  What is the PECOS Associate Control ID?
  A PAC ID is a unique 10-digit number assigned to an individual or organization healthcare provider in PECOS. The PAC ID is used to link together all the provider information, like tax identification numbers and organizational names. A PAC ID can be connected to multiple Enrollment IDs if an individual or organization has enrolled in PECOS more than once.

• PECOS Enrollment ID: I20220824000134

  What is the Provider Enrollment ID?
  The Enrollment ID is a unique alphanumeric 15-digit code assigned to each new provider's PECOS enrollment application. The Enrollment ID is used to link together all the provider enrollment information like enrollment type, state, provider specialty, and reassignment of benefits.

• Accepts Medicare Assignment? Maybe

  What does it mean "accepts medicare assignment"?
  When a provider accepts Medicare assignment, the provider agrees to be paid directly by Medicare and to accept the payment amount approved by Medicare. Additionally, the provider agrees to not bill patients for more than the Medicare deductible and coinsurance amounts.
  A provider who doesn't accept assignment may charge you up to 15% over the Medicare-approved amount. This is known as the limiting charge. You may have to pay this amount, or it may be covered by another insurer.

• Eligible to Order or Refer Part B Clinical Laboratory and Imaging: Yes

• Eligible to Order or Refer Durable Medical Equipment (DMEPOS): Yes

• Eligible to Order or Refer a Home Health Agency (HHA): Yes

• Eligible to Order or Refer Power Mobility Devices: Yes

Areas of Expertise

The following services and procedures, recently provided to Medicare patients, illustrate the range of care this provider offers. This list reflects the variety of services available to all patients visiting the practice and is based on 2022 Medicare dataset. In general, the more frequently a provider treats specific conditions or performs particular procedures, the more experienced they become in addressing similar patient needs. The provider has delivered many of the services listed below to Medicare patients. Please note that this list does not include services provided to patients who are not covered by Medicare.

Aspiration and/or injection of fluid large joint using ultrasound guidance

This procedure involves using ultrasound technology to accurately locate a large joint, usually the knee or shoulder. A needle is then inserted to either extract fluid (aspiration) or inject medication. The ultrasound helps ensure precision and safety.

This service was performed 80 times for 49 patients

Destruction of lower or sacral spinal facet joint nerves using imaging guidance, each additional facet joint

This procedure involves using imaging technology to locate and treat nerves in your lower spine or sacral area that may be causing pain. Each additional facet joint refers to treating more than one spinal nerve. It's a non-invasive way to manage chronic back pain.

This service was performed 95 times for 84 patients

Destruction of lower or sacral spinal facet joint nerves using imaging guidance, single facet joint

This procedure involves using imaging guidance to accurately target and destroy nerves in the lower or sacral spinal facet joint. It's done to relieve chronic back pain. The process is safe and usually effective.

This service was performed 103 times for 91 patients

Destruction of nerves supplying joint between spine and pelvis using imaging guidance

This procedure involves the use of imaging technology to accurately locate and destroy specific nerves in the joint between your spine and pelvis. The goal is to reduce pain by interrupting the nerve signals responsible for your discomfort.

This service was performed 16 times for 13 patients

Destruction of upper or middle spinal facet joint nerves using imaging guidance, each additional facet joint

This procedure involves the use of imaging technology to accurately target and destroy nerves in the upper or middle spinal facet joints, which may be causing pain. Each additional facet joint treated follows the same process.

This service was performed 35 times for 32 patients

Destruction of upper or middle spinal facet joint nerves using imaging guidance, single facet joint

This procedure involves the use of imaging technology to guide a needle to the nerves of a single facet joint in the upper or middle spine. The nerves are then treated to alleviate pain and improve mobility.

This service was performed 36 times for 33 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit with low level od decision making, if using time, 20 minutes or more

This is a routine visit for patients who have already been seen by the healthcare provider. During this approximately 20-29 minute appointment, your health status will be evaluated and any necessary treatments or tests will be discussed. It's a chance to address any health concerns you may have.

This service was performed 460 times for 302 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit with moderate level of decision making, if using time, 30 minutes or more

This is a routine check-up for patients who have previously visited our clinic. It involves a comprehensive review of your health and any ongoing treatments. The consultation lasts between 30-39 minutes, allowing enough time to discuss any concerns.

This service was performed 1,054 times for 457 patients

Injection of anesthetic and/or steroid drug into sacral spine nerve root using imaging guidance, each additional level

This procedure involves injecting an anesthetic or steroid drug into the sacral spine nerve root. It's done under imaging guidance to ensure accuracy. The process can be repeated for each additional level of the spine to help manage pain or inflammation.

This service was performed 42 times for 33 patients

Injection of anesthetic and/or steroid drug into sacral spine nerve root using imaging guidance, single level

This procedure involves injecting a mix of numbing and anti-inflammatory medication into a specific nerve root in the lower back. It helps manage pain and reduce inflammation. The process is guided by imaging technology for precision.

This service was performed 169 times for 123 patients

Injection of anesthetic or steroid into joint between lower spine and hip bone using imaging guidance

This procedure involves injecting medicine into the joint where your lower spine meets your hip bone. Using special imaging technology, the doctor ensures the medicine is delivered accurately. This can help reduce pain and inflammation in that area.

This service was performed 102 times for 80 patients

Injection of drug or substance under skin or into muscle

This procedure involves administering medication directly under the skin or into a muscle. A small needle is used to inject the drug, allowing it to be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. It's a common method for delivering a variety of medications.

This service was performed 31 times for 29 patients

Injection of lower or sacral spine facet joint using imaging guidance, second level

This procedure involves injecting medication into the facet joints of your lower or sacral spine to manage pain. Imaging guidance ensures accurate placement. It's the second level, meaning it's done on two different joint levels.

This service was performed 161 times for 93 patients

Injection of lower or sacral spine facet joint using imaging guidance, single level

This procedure involves injecting medication into the facet joint in your lower back or sacral spine. It's done under imaging guidance to ensure accuracy. The aim is to alleviate pain and inflammation. It's a safe, often effective method for managing spinal discomfort.

This service was performed 173 times for 102 patients

Injection of substance into lower spine canal using imaging guidance

This procedure involves injecting a substance into your lower spine canal, guided by real-time images. It's done to diagnose or treat various conditions. You may feel slight discomfort, but it's generally safe and can provide valuable information for your treatment plan.

This service was performed 270 times for 204 patients

Injection of substance into middle or upper spine canal using imaging guidance

This procedure involves injecting a substance into your middle or upper spine canal. It's performed under imaging guidance to ensure accuracy. The substance can help diagnose or treat various conditions, providing relief from symptoms.

This service was performed 41 times for 33 patients

Injection of trigger points, 1-2 muscles

Trigger point injection is a procedure used to treat painful areas of muscle that contain trigger points, or knots of muscle that form when muscles do not relax. 1-2 muscles are typically treated in one session. The procedure involves injecting medications into these points to alleviate pain.

This service was performed 17 times for 13 patients

Injection of trigger points, 3 or more muscles

Trigger point injection therapy involves injecting medication into specific areas of your muscles, known as trigger points. These are areas that produce pain and discomfort. If you have three or more muscles affected, each will be treated individually.

This service was performed 48 times for 39 patients

Injection of upper or middle spine facet joint using imaging guidance, second level

This procedure involves injecting medication into the upper or middle spine facet joint, a small joint in your back. This is done under imaging guidance for precision. It's a second-level procedure, meaning it's done on two separate joints. It can help reduce pain and inflammation.

This service was performed 74 times for 43 patients

Injection of upper or middle spine facet joint using imaging guidance, single level

This procedure involves injecting medication into a joint in your upper or middle spine. It's performed under imaging guidance for precision. The aim is to reduce inflammation and pain. It's a single-level process, meaning one joint is treated at a time.

This service was performed 89 times for 52 patients

Injection, dexamethasone sodium phosphate, 1 mg

Dexamethasone sodium phosphate is a medication given via injection. It is a type of steroid that helps reduce inflammation and immune responses. It can be used to treat a variety of conditions, such as allergies, skin conditions, arthritis, and more.

This service was performed 921 times for 68 patients

Injection, ketorolac tromethamine, per 15 mg

Ketorolac tromethamine is a medication administered through injection, often used to manage moderate to severe pain. Each 15 mg dose helps to reduce hormones causing inflammation and pain in the body. It is not recommended for long-term use.

This service was performed 120 times for 28 patients

Injection, triamcinolone acetonide, not otherwise specified, 10 mg

Triamcinolone acetonide is a medication used to reduce inflammation in the body. It's given as a 10 mg injection for conditions like allergies, arthritis, or skin problems. The injection helps to decrease swelling, redness, and itching.

This service was performed 3,318 times for 373 patients

Insertion of spinal neurostimulator electrode array through skin

This procedure involves placing a small device, called a neurostimulator electrode array, under your skin near your spine. It delivers mild electrical signals to your spinal cord, helping to manage chronic pain.

This service was performed 20 times for 11 patients

New patient office or other outpatient visit with moderate level of medical decision making, if using time, 45 minutes or more

This is a first-time office or outpatient visit lasting between 45-59 minutes. The healthcare provider evaluates your health, discusses your medical history, and may suggest further tests or treatments. It's an opportunity to ask questions and understand your health better.

This service was performed 309 times for 309 patients

Testing for presence of drug, by chemistry analyzers

Chemistry analyzers are used to detect the presence of drugs in your system. This test involves taking a small sample of your blood or urine. The sample is then analyzed for specific substances. The results help in understanding your health condition better.

This service was performed 408 times for 311 patients

Ultrasonic guidance for needle placement

Ultrasonic guidance for needle placement is a technique where sound waves create images that help accurately position the needle during procedures. This method ensures precision, minimizes discomfort, and increases safety.

This service was performed 75 times for 56 patients

X-ray of lower and sacral spine, minimum of 4 views

An X-ray of the lower and sacral spine involves capturing images of your lower back and tailbone area. It helps in identifying issues like fractures, arthritis, or other abnormalities. At least four different angles or 'views' are taken to get a comprehensive picture.

This service was performed 30 times for 29 patients

X-ray of middle and lower spine, 2 views

An X-ray of the middle and lower spine, or 2-view lumbar spine X-ray, involves capturing images of your back. This helps detect issues like fractures, infections, or other abnormalities. It's painless and quick, taking only a few minutes.

This service was performed 37 times for 25 patients

Overall MIPS Quality Performance

The provider participated in CMS Quality Payment Program under the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) and has an overall final score of 49.63, based on four performance areas: quality, improvement activities, promoting interoperability, and cost. The purpose of this information is to help people with Medicare make informed decisions and incentivize doctors and clinicians to maximize performance. The provider also has detailed performance information the following quality measures: .

The Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) is a way providers could use to participate in CMS Quality Payment Program (QPP). The MIPS program affects clinician reimbursement for Part B covered professional services and also rewards them for improving the quality of patient care and outcomes.

• Final Score: 49.63 out of 100

  The MIPS program evaluates providers across multiple categories with a specific weight for each category resulting a in a MIPS final score that ranges from 0 to 100 points. The MIPS Final Score determines whether providers receive a negative, neutral or positive MIPS payment adjustment.
  
  

• Quality Score: 73.29

  The Quality category assesses providers performance on clinical practices and patient outcomes under the traditional MIPS program. The quality measures help identify the quality of healthcare processes, outcomes, and patient experiences. The Quality measure category comprises 40% of a provider's final MIPS score.
  
  There are six collection types for MIPS quality measures: Electronic Clinical Quality Measures (eCQMs), MIPS Clinical Quality Measures (CQMs), Qualified Clinical Data Registry (QCDR) Measures, Medicare Part B claims measures, CMS Web Interface measures and The Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) for MIPS Survey.
  
  

• Promoting Interoperability Score: 0

  The Interoperability category measures the providers ability to use technology to exchange and make use of healthcare information in a way that is less burdensome and improves outcomes. The Interoperability measure category comprises 25% of a provider's final MIPS score.
  
  The MIPS Interoperability measure focuses on the use of certified electronic health record technology (CEHRT) to improve patient access health information, the exchange of information between clinicians and pharmacies and the systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of healthcare data.

• Improvement Activities Score: 40

  The Improvement Activities performance category evaluates the providers participation in clinical activities that support the improvement of clinical practice, care delivery, and outcomes. Providers have the option to choose 2 to 4 activities from an inventory of over 100 improvement activities. Providers typically choose the activities that best fit their needs. The improvement activities measure category comprises 15% of a provider's final MIPS score.
  
  The Improvement measures aim to better patient engagement, patient safety and other areas of patient care. The Improvement Activities category comprises 15% of a provider's final MIPS score.

• Cost Score: 42.15

  The Cost performance category assesses the amount and types of services provided and how clinicians coordinate care and seek improvement of health outcomes by ensuring patients receive the appropriate services.
  
  Although providers don't determine the price of healthcare services they are important in delivering high-quality care at a reasonable cost. The Cost measures category comprises 20% of a provider's final MIPS score.

MIPS Quality Measures

Find Provider Hospital Affiliations - Privileges

Doctors and physicians must apply for hospital privileges to treat patients at hospitals. Find out if your doctor has privileges to practice at your preferred hospital by using the hospital affiliation information below based on recent medical claims.

Hospital affiliation is identified through self-reporting data, inpatient, outpatient, physician and ancillary service claims linked by the medical claims NPI number and place of service code. Additionally, to further determine provider hospital affiliation the clinician must have provided services to at least three patients on three different dates in the last 12 months. Dianne Lou is affiliated with the following medical facilities:

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Frequently Asked Questions