DR. NATHANIEL JAMES BUFFINGTON MD
NPI 1316028947
Family Medicine in Fairbanks, AK

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

Nathaniel Buffington 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.

Nathaniel Buffington 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: 1456379593

  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: I20250107001193

  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)

  5 DME suppliers used 39 Medicare Claims 97 Services Paid

• DME-Medical/Surgical Supplies (DA000N)

  Lancets, per box of 100 (HCPCS:A4259)

  4 DME suppliers used 16 Medicare Claims 20 Services Paid

• DME-Hospital Beds (DB000N)

  Hospital bed, semi-electric (head and foot adjustment), with any type side rails, with mattress (HCPCS:E0260)

  1 DME suppliers used 11 Medicare Claims 11 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)

  1 DME suppliers used 27 Medicare Claims 27 Services Paid

• DME-Oxygen and Supplies (DC002N)

  Portable oxygen concentrator, rental (HCPCS:E1392)

  1 DME suppliers used 15 Medicare Claims 15 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)

  2 DME suppliers used 14 Medicare Claims 14 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 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 84 times for 80 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 55 times for 55 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 161 times for 161 patients

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

An annual wellness visit is a yearly appointment with your doctor to create or update a personalized prevention plan. This plan helps prevent illness based on your current health and risk factors. It's an opportunity to discuss your health status and goals and get a plan tailored for you.

This service was performed 31 times for 31 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 98 times for 91 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 808 times for 573 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 59 times for 54 patients

Hemoglobin a1c level

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a test that measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. It's used to monitor how well diabetes is being controlled. High levels may indicate that your diabetes treatment plan needs adjustment.

This service was performed 21 times for 20 patients

Influenza vaccine split virus, preservative free

The Influenza Vaccine Split Virus, preservative-free, is a flu shot to protect against the influenza virus. It is made from parts of inactivated flu viruses and doesn't contain preservatives, reducing potential side effects. It helps your body develop immunity to the flu.

This service was performed 38 times for 38 patients

Influenza vaccine, quadrivalent, preservative free, 0.5 ml dosage

The quadrivalent influenza vaccine is a shot to protect you from four different flu viruses. It's preservative-free and given in a 0.5 ml dose. It helps your body build immunity to the flu, reducing your risk of getting sick.

This service was performed 37 times for 35 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 89 times for 27 patients

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, 20 valent (pcv20), for intramuscular use

The Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV20) is a shot given to protect against 20 types of bacteria that can cause serious infections like pneumonia and meningitis. It's administered through a muscle, usually in the arm. It's important for overall health.

This service was performed 26 times for 26 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 25 times for 25 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 49 times for 48 patients

Testing for presence of drug, read by direct observation

Testing for the presence of drugs involves collecting a sample, usually urine, which is then analyzed for specific substances. The process is monitored directly to ensure accuracy and integrity. This test helps to confirm if drugs are present in your system.

This service was performed 13 times for 13 patients

Physician Visit Costs

The typical physician office visit costs for Medicare beneficiaries in this area are: $27.89 for a new patient copayment and $32.18 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 99701 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 75, 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: 75 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: N/A

  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: N/A

  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.

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