DR. HOWARD COBB ALEXANDER M.D.
NPI 1376598458
Orthopaedic Surgery in Huntsville, AL

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

Howard Alexander 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.

Howard Alexander 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: 4880696152

  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: I20100720000396

  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 (DE000N)

  Walker, folding, wheeled, adjustable or fixed height (HCPCS:E0143)

  5 DME suppliers used 17 Medicare Claims 17 Services Paid

Orthotic Devices

• DME-Orthotic Devices (DF011N)

  Knee orthosis, elastic with condylar pads and joints, with or without patellar control, prefabricated, includes fitting and adjustment (HCPCS:L1820)

  1 DME suppliers used 13 Medicare Claims 13 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.

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 356 times for 159 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 1,017 times for 591 patients

Hip replacement

A hip replacement is a surgical procedure where a worn-out or damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial one. This procedure can greatly reduce pain and improve mobility. It's often recommended when other treatments like physical therapy or medications fail to alleviate symptoms.

This service was performed for 1-10 patients

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

Orthovisc is a treatment involving injections of a substance called hyaluronan into your joints. Hyaluronan is a natural substance in your joint fluid that aids in movement and reduces pain. The Orthovisc injections help replenish this substance, relieving joint pain.

This service was performed 256 times for 66 patients

Injection, methylprednisolone acetate, 80 mg

Methylprednisolone acetate is a strong anti-inflammatory medication. It is often given as an 80 mg injection to reduce inflammation and pain. It's commonly used for conditions like arthritis, allergic disorders, or other inflammatory diseases.

This service was performed 182 times for 104 patients

Knee replacement

A knee replacement is a surgical procedure where a damaged or diseased knee joint is replaced with an artificial one. This can relieve pain and improve mobility. The procedure involves removing damaged parts of the knee and inserting a prosthetic joint. Recovery may take several weeks.

This service was performed for 12 patients

Lower limb (leg) arthroscopy (minimally invasive joint repair)

Lower limb arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to examine and repair issues in your leg joints. It involves making small incisions through which a tiny camera and instruments are inserted. This technique can help diagnose and treat various joint problems with less pain and quicker recovery time.

This service was performed for 13 patients

Mri scan of arm joint without contrast

An MRI scan of the arm joint is a non-invasive imaging procedure that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the structures within your arm joint. No contrast dye is used in this process. It helps to diagnose or monitor conditions like arthritis, injuries, or infections.

This service was performed 40 times for 38 patients

Mri scan of leg joint without contrast

An MRI scan of your leg joint is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the structures within your leg. This helps doctors diagnose or monitor conditions without using contrast dye.

This service was performed 101 times for 98 patients

Mri scan of lower spinal canal without contrast

An MRI scan of the lower spinal canal without contrast is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of your lower spine. This helps identify issues like disc problems, tumors, or nerve conditions. No dye is used.

This service was performed 18 times for 18 patients

New patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-44 minutes

This service involves an initial office or outpatient visit for a new patient. The healthcare professional will spend 30-44 minutes understanding your health history, current issues, and discussing possible treatment plans. It's a comprehensive evaluation to start your healthcare journey.

This service was performed 157 times for 157 patients

Prosthetic repair of shoulder joint, total shoulder

Total shoulder prosthetic repair is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged shoulder joint with artificial components. It aims to relieve pain and restore mobility. The procedure involves replacing the ball (humeral head) and socket (glenoid) of the shoulder joint.

This service was performed 16 times for 16 patients

Removal of both knee cartilages using an endoscope

This procedure, also known as bilateral knee arthroscopy, involves using a small camera (endoscope) to view and remove damaged cartilage from both knees. It's a minimally invasive surgery aimed at relieving pain and improving mobility.

This service was performed 24 times for 24 patients

Removal of knee cartilage using an endoscope

This procedure, known as arthroscopic knee surgery, involves using a small camera (endoscope) to view the inside of your knee. Small instruments are used to remove damaged cartilage. This can help alleviate pain and improve knee function.

This service was performed 25 times for 25 patients

Replacement of knee joint, both sides of knee

A bilateral knee joint replacement is a procedure where the damaged parts of both your knee joints are replaced with artificial parts. It aims to relieve pain and improve mobility. The process involves a surgical operation under anesthesia.

This service was performed 34 times for 34 patients

Replacement of thigh bone and hip joint with prosthesis

This procedure, known as hip arthroplasty, involves replacing your damaged thigh bone and hip joint with artificial parts, called a prosthesis. It helps relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance your quality of life.

This service was performed 31 times for 31 patients

Shaving of part of shoulder bone and repair of ligament using an endoscope

This procedure involves using a tiny camera, called an endoscope, to view and repair a damaged shoulder ligament. Simultaneously, a small portion of the shoulder bone is shaved to alleviate discomfort and improve movement. It's a minimally invasive technique that aids in a quicker recovery.

This service was performed 12 times for 12 patients

Upper limb (arm) arthroscopy (minimally invasive joint repair)

Upper limb arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine and treat issues within your arm's joints. A small camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted through a tiny incision, providing a clear view of the joint. This method often results in less pain and faster recovery compared to open surgery.

This service was performed for 1-10 patients

X-ray of both hips, 3-4 views

An X-ray of both hips with 3-4 views is a safe imaging procedure. It involves capturing multiple pictures of your hip joints from different angles. This helps in diagnosing conditions like arthritis or fractures. You'll need to stay still during the process for clear images.

This service was performed 31 times for 30 patients

X-ray of hip, 2-3 views

An X-ray of the hip with 2-3 views is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce pictures of the hip joint. These images help in diagnosing conditions like fractures, arthritis, or other abnormalities. The process is quick and painless.

This service was performed 277 times for 222 patients

X-ray of knee, 3 views

An X-ray of the knee, 3 views, is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of the knee from three different angles. This helps medical professionals to diagnose and monitor conditions like arthritis, fractures, or infections. The process is quick and painless.

This service was performed 381 times for 314 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 73 times for 72 patients

X-ray of shoulder, minimum of 2 views

An X-ray of the shoulder, with a minimum of 2 views, is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of your shoulder bones. This helps in diagnosing conditions like fractures, arthritis, or other abnormalities. The procedure is quick and painless.

This service was performed 129 times for 107 patients

X-ray of upper spine, 4-5 views

An X-ray of the upper spine with 4-5 views is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses radiation to capture detailed images of the bones and structures in your neck and upper back. This procedure helps identify issues like fractures, infections, or deformities.

This service was performed 29 times for 29 patients

Physician Visit Costs

The typical physician office visit costs for Medicare beneficiaries in this area are: $20.47 for a new patient copayment and $16.52 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 35802 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 87.58, 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: 87.58 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: 93

  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: 71.44

  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: 71.44

  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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