DR. LOURDES S APONTE MD
NPI 1144299959
Internal Medicine - Rheumatology in Lewes, DE

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

Lourdes Aponte is registered with Medicare and accepts claims assignment, this means the provider accepts the approved amount for the cost of rendered services as full payment. Participating providers may not charge beneficiaries more than the approved amount for their services. Please keep in mind that beneficiaries still have to pay a coinsurance or copayment amount for a visit or service.

Lourdes Aponte 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: 2163496183

  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: I20050127000257

  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? Yes

  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

Provider Referred Orders for Durable Medical Equipment, Devices & Supplies

The following list reflects the services, supplies or durable medical equipment ordered by this provider to a DME supplier on behalf of patients. The information below is derived from Medicare claims data and reflects the BETOS category, HCPCS code information and the number times each service was submitted under the Medicare fee-for-service program.

Durable Medical Equipment

• DME-Other DME (DE017N)

  Blood glucose test or reagent strips for home blood glucose monitor, per 50 strips (HCPCS:A4253)

  11 DME suppliers used 29 Medicare Claims 82 Services Paid

• DME-Oxygen and Supplies (DC000N)

  Portable gaseous oxygen system, rental; includes portable container, regulator, flowmeter, humidifier, cannula or mask, and tubing (HCPCS:E0431)

  2 DME suppliers used 12 Medicare Claims 12 Services Paid

• DME-Oxygen and Supplies (DC002N)

  Oxygen concentrator, single delivery port, capable of delivering 85 percent or greater oxygen concentration at the prescribed flow rate (HCPCS:E1390)

  2 DME suppliers used 12 Medicare Claims 12 Services Paid

• DME-Other DME (DE017N)

  Supply allowance for therapeutic continuous glucose monitor (cgm), includes all supplies and accessories, 1 month supply = 1 unit of service (HCPCS:K0553)

  1 DME suppliers used 11 Medicare Claims 11 Services Paid

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.

Administration of chemotherapy into vein, 1 hour or less

Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. When administered into a vein, it's often through an IV. This procedure usually lasts 1 hour or less. You may feel a slight pinch as the needle is inserted, but it's generally painless.

This service was performed 433 times for 79 patients

Administration of chemotherapy into vein, each additional hour

Chemotherapy is a treatment method that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. The drugs are administered into a vein, usually in the arm. Each additional hour of chemotherapy allows for more of the medication to enter your bloodstream to fight against the cancer cells.

This service was performed 146 times for 39 patients

Administration of influenza virus vaccine

The administration of the influenza virus vaccine, also known as the flu shot, is a simple procedure to protect against the flu. A healthcare provider injects a small dose of the vaccine into your arm. This stimulates your immune system to produce antibodies, which will help your body fight off the flu if exposed.

This service was performed 103 times for 103 patients

Administration of non-hormonal anti-neoplastic chemotherapy under skin or into muscle

This procedure involves giving anti-cancer drugs, which don't contain hormones, into the muscle or under the skin. These drugs help to stop the growth of cancer cells. The process is usually quick and done by a healthcare professional.

This service was performed 698 times for 238 patients

Administration of pneumococcal vaccine

The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause severe infections like pneumonia and meningitis. The vaccine is given as an injection, typically in the arm. It's recommended for infants, older adults, and those with certain health conditions.

This service was performed 35 times for 35 patients

Annual wellness visit, includes a personalized prevention plan of service (pps), subsequent visit

An annual wellness visit is a yearly appointment with your primary care provider to create or update a personalized prevention plan. This plan helps prevent illness based on your current health and risk factors. It's a subsequent visit, meaning it follows an initial assessment.

This service was performed 286 times for 286 patients

Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from large joint

This procedure involves using a needle to remove (aspiration) or introduce (injection) fluid into a large joint like the knee or hip. It can help diagnose conditions, relieve discomfort, or deliver medication directly to the joint.

This service was performed 451 times for 283 patients

Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from small joint

This procedure involves inserting a thin needle into a small joint to remove (aspirate) or inject fluid. It can help diagnose conditions, relieve discomfort, or administer medication directly into the joint. It's generally safe with minimal discomfort.

This service was performed 34 times for 29 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 20-29 minutes

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 1,598 times for 931 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes

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 1,342 times for 754 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 40-54 minutes

This service involves a follow-up appointment for existing patients, lasting between 40 to 54 minutes. During this time, your healthcare provider will assess your current health status, discuss any changes or concerns, review your treatment plan, and answer any questions you may have.

This service was performed 173 times for 131 patients

Hyaluronan or derivative, durolane, for intra-articular injection, 1 mg

Hyaluronan or derivative, Durolane, is a treatment injected directly into the joint to relieve pain and improve mobility. It's often used for arthritis in the knee. The substance works by supplementing your body's natural joint fluid to help lubricate and cushion the joint.

This service was performed 6,900 times for 63 patients

Hyaluronan or derivative, monovisc, for intra-articular injection, per dose

Monovisc is a treatment involving an injection of hyaluronan or its derivative into a joint, often the knee. This substance, found naturally in joint fluid, helps lubricate and cushion the joint. The injection can help ease pain, improve mobility, and reduce inflammation caused by arthritis.

This service was performed 48 times for 27 patients

Influenza vaccine, quadrivalent derived from cell cultures

The quadrivalent influenza vaccine, derived from cell cultures, is a flu shot that protects against four different flu viruses. It's made in labs using cell cultures instead of eggs, making it a good option for those with egg allergies. It's a crucial tool in preventing the flu.

This service was performed 105 times for 105 patients

Infusion into a vein for therapy, prevention, or diagnosis, 1 hour or less

This is a procedure where a medical professional inserts a small tube into your vein to deliver medication, nutrients, or fluids directly into your bloodstream. This can be for treatment, prevention, or diagnosis. The process typically takes less than an hour.

This service was performed 61 times for 43 patients

Injection into tendon or ligament

An injection into a tendon or ligament involves placing medication directly into these areas to help reduce inflammation and pain. It's often used for conditions like arthritis or tendonitis. The procedure is quick and usually involves a local anesthetic.

This service was performed 199 times for 156 patients

Injection of additional new drug or substance into vein

This procedure involves introducing a new medication or substance into your bloodstream via a vein. It's typically done using a small needle. The substance can help treat various conditions or assist in diagnostic procedures. It's generally safe and monitored by professionals.

This service was performed 27 times for 17 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 842 times for 521 patients

Injection, abatacept, 10 mg (code may be used for medicare when drug administered under the direct supervision of a physician, not for use when drug is self administered)

Abatacept is a medication administered via injection under a doctor's supervision. It's used to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis by moderating the immune system. This code applies when the doctor administers the drug, not for self-administration.

This service was performed 7,225 times for 14 patients

Injection, certolizumab pegol, 1 mg (code may be used for medicare when drug administered under the direct supervision of a physician, not for use when drug is self administered)

Certolizumab pegol is a medication injected under a doctor's supervision. It's used to treat certain inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. The injection helps reduce symptoms like pain and swelling. Note that this drug isn't for self-administration.

This service was performed 81,200 times for 25 patients

Injection, denosumab, 1 mg

Denosumab is a medication given via injection to strengthen your bones. It works by slowing down the cells that break down bone, improving bone density and reducing the risk of fractures. It's often used for osteoporosis treatment.

This service was performed 49,860 times for 497 patients

Injection, golimumab, 1 mg, for intravenous use

Golimumab is a medication given through an IV (a small tube in your vein). It helps to reduce inflammation and pain by blocking a protein in your body that causes inflammation. It's often used to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

This service was performed 14,700 times for 21 patients

Injection, inclisiran, 1 mg

Inclisiran is an injection administered to lower cholesterol levels. It works by blocking the production of LDL (bad cholesterol) in your liver. This medicine is often used when diet changes and other medications have not been effective.

This service was performed 9,616 times for 24 patients

Injection, infliximab, excludes biosimilar, 10 mg

Infliximab is a medication given via injection to treat certain autoimmune conditions. It works by blocking the action of a substance in your body that causes inflammation. Each dose is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

This service was performed 8,078 times for 22 patients

Injection, methylprednisolone acetate, 20 mg

Methylprednisolone acetate is a medication given via injection to reduce inflammation and pain. It's often used to treat conditions like arthritis, allergic reactions, and certain skin diseases. The 20 mg dose is tailored to your specific needs.

This service was performed 52 times for 44 patients

Injection, methylprednisolone acetate, 40 mg

Methylprednisolone acetate is a medication given through an injection. It's a type of corticosteroid, which reduces inflammation and immune responses. It can be used to treat various conditions like arthritis, allergies, and skin diseases. This dose is 40 mg.

This service was performed 125 times for 95 patients

Injection, methylprednisolone sodium succinate, up to 125 mg

Methylprednisolone sodium succinate is a steroid medication injected into a muscle or vein. It helps reduce inflammation and immune response. It's used for various conditions like allergies, arthritis, breathing problems, or skin diseases. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions.

This service was performed 27 times for 17 patients

Injection, ocrelizumab, 1 mg

Ocrelizumab is a medication given via injection to manage conditions like Multiple Sclerosis. It helps control symptoms by targeting specific proteins in the immune system. This service involves injecting 1 mg of Ocrelizumab.

This service was performed 10,800 times for 11 patients

Injection, romosozumab-aqqg, 1 mg

Romosozumab-aqqg is a medication given by injection to treat osteoporosis in patients at high risk for fractures. It works by increasing bone mass and strength, reducing the risk of fractures.

This service was performed 24,780 times for 19 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 1,743 times for 294 patients

Injection, triamcinolone acetonide, preservative-free, extended-release, microsphere formulation, 1 mg

Triamcinolone acetonide is a long-lasting, preservative-free steroid injection. It's delivered in tiny, slow-releasing particles (microspheres) to manage inflammation or related conditions. The dose given is 1 mg. It's generally safe with few side effects.

This service was performed 326 times for 11 patients

Injection, vitamin b-12 cyanocobalamin, up to 1000 mcg

This is a procedure where a small dose of Vitamin B-12, also known as Cyanocobalamin, is injected into your body. This vitamin is essential for nerve function and the production of red blood cells. It's often used to treat vitamin B-12 deficiency.

This service was performed 29 times for 13 patients

Injection, zoledronic acid, 1 mg

Zoledronic acid is a medication given via injection to strengthen bones. It's often used in patients with osteoporosis or certain types of cancer. The injection helps reduce the risk of fractures and other bone complications.

This service was performed 105 times for 21 patients

New patient office or other outpatient visit, 45-59 minutes

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 18 times for 18 patients

New patient office or other outpatient visit, 60-74 minutes

This is a first-time patient visit where a healthcare professional spends 60-74 minutes with you. It involves a comprehensive evaluation, including your medical history and current health condition. They'll also advise on preventive health measures and formulate a treatment plan if needed.

This service was performed 235 times for 235 patients

Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of established patient that may not require presence of healthcare professional

This service involves an outpatient visit for established patients who may not need direct interaction with a healthcare professional. It could include reviewing test results, monitoring existing conditions, or adjusting treatment plans. It's typically done remotely, ensuring your comfort and convenience.

This service was performed 68 times for 11 patients

Pneumococcal vaccine, 23-valent

The 23-valent pneumococcal vaccine is an injection that helps protect against serious infections caused by 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria. It's vital for those at risk, like older adults or people with certain health conditions, to prevent pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.

This service was performed 32 times for 32 patients

Removal of impacted ear wax

Impacted ear wax removal is a safe procedure to clear blockages in the ear canal caused by hardened ear wax. A healthcare professional uses specialized tools or a gentle irrigation method to loosen and remove the wax, improving hearing and alleviating discomfort.

This service was performed 12 times for 11 patients

Routine electrocardiogram (ecg) using at least 12 leads with interpretation and report

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a non-invasive test that records your heart's electrical activity. Using 12 leads attached to your body, it captures data to help identify heart conditions. A doctor interprets the results and provides a report.

This service was performed 137 times for 131 patients

Transitional care management services for problem of high complexity

Transitional care management services are designed to ensure a smooth transition from a hospital to home or another care setting for patients with complex health issues. These services include medication management, patient education, and coordination with healthcare providers.

This service was performed 22 times for 18 patients

Transitional care management services for problem of moderate complexity

Transitional care management services focus on coordinating and managing your care after you leave the hospital. For moderate complexity problems, this involves managing your medications, arranging further treatments, and ensuring you have the necessary follow-ups.

This service was performed 12 times for 11 patients

Urinalysis, manual test

A urinalysis is a simple, non-invasive test that checks the urine for various elements such as sugar, protein, and signs of infection. It can help detect many common conditions, including kidney disease and diabetes. The manual test involves a lab technician examining a urine sample.

This service was performed 40 times for 32 patients

Ustekinumab, for subcutaneous injection, 1 mg

Ustekinumab is a medication given as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it's injected under the skin. It's used to treat certain autoimmune conditions by moderating the immune system. This can help reduce inflammation and other symptoms.

This service was performed 2,205 times for 12 patients

Physician Visit Costs

The typical physician office visit costs for Medicare beneficiaries in this area are: $32.78 for a new patient copayment and $25.17 for an established patient copayment.

The pricing information below displays the copayment minimum, maximum and average amount that patients under Medicare are charged when visiting this provider as a new or established patient. Please keep in mind that these prices are just for reference purposes, and the actual prices charged by the provider might be different.

For patients covered under private health plans the prices below are also useful as healthcare pricing for private insurance is usually established as a function of Medicare prices. Private insurance covered patients should check their individual plans to determine the exact pricing.

The prices below reflect the costs for new and established patients in the 19958 ZIP code area.

* The physician office visit costs information is generated by statistical analysis of similar providers in the same geographical area. The pricing information above IS NOT the amount charged by this provider.

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 90.06, 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 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: 90.06 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: 80.12

  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 compromises 40% providers final MPIS scores.
  
  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: N/A

  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 compromises 25% providers final MPIS scores.
  
  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 compromises 15% providers final MPIS scores.
  
  The Improvement measures aim to better patient engagement, patient safety and other areas of patient care. The Improvement Activities category compromises 15% of providers final MPIS scores.

• Cost Score: N/A

  The Cost performance category asses 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 compromises 20% of providers final MPIS scores.

• Cost Score: N/A

  The Cost performance category asses 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 compromises 20% of providers final MPIS scores.

Quality Reporting

The provider participated in CMS Quality Payment Program. The Quality Payment Program aims to improve population health, reduce costs and improve the care received by Medicare beneficiaries. The following quality measures meet Medicare's statistical reporting standards. Not all providers report the same information, because not all providers give the same services to patients. The quality information is just a snapshot of some the care providers give to their patients. Reporting more or less information is not a reflection of quality.

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. Lourdes Aponte is affiliated with the following medical facilities:

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Frequently Asked Questions