DR. JAMES RICHARD KUNKEL MD
NPI 1417937541
Specialist in Arroyo Grande, CA

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

James Kunkel 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.

James Kunkel 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: 9931106309

  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: I20061026000583

  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

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.

Biopsy of related skin growth, each additional growth

A biopsy of related skin growth is a procedure where a small piece of skin growth is removed for testing. If additional growths are identified, they may also be biopsied. This helps in diagnosing skin conditions and planning appropriate treatment.

This service was performed 40 times for 30 patients

Biopsy of related skin growth, first growth

A biopsy of a skin growth involves taking a small sample of the growth to examine it under a microscope. This helps determine if the growth is harmful. The procedure is typically quick, with minimal discomfort. It's a crucial step in ensuring your skin's health.

This service was performed 120 times for 107 patients

Destruction of cancer skin growth of face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mouth, 0.5 cm or less

This is a procedure where a small cancerous skin growth on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mouth is removed. The growth is 0.5 cm or less. The aim is to eliminate the cancer and prevent it from spreading. It's a common, safe method to treat skin cancer.

This service was performed 25 times for 24 patients

Destruction of cancer skin growth of face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mouth, 0.6-1.0 cm

This procedure involves the removal of cancerous skin growths on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mouth that are between 0.6-1.0 cm in size. The goal is to eliminate cancer cells, preventing further spread and promoting health.

This service was performed 52 times for 46 patients

Destruction of cancer skin growth of face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mouth, 1.1-2.0 cm

This procedure involves the removal of a cancerous skin growth on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mouth that measures between 1.1 to 2.0 cm. It's done to prevent the spread of cancer and improve health.

This service was performed 23 times for 20 patients

Destruction of cancer skin growth of scalp, neck, hands, feet, or genitals, 0.6-1.0 cm

This procedure involves the removal of a small cancerous skin growth, between 0.6 to 1.0 cm, located on the scalp, neck, hands, or feet. The aim is to eliminate the cancerous cells and prevent their spread. The treatment is done in a safe, controlled environment.

This service was performed 29 times for 28 patients

Destruction of cancer skin growth of scalp, neck, hands, feet, or genitals, 1.1-2.0 cm

This procedure involves the removal of a cancerous skin growth measuring 1.1-2.0 cm, located on the scalp, neck, hands, or feet. The process may involve techniques like surgery, laser, or cryotherapy. The aim is to eliminate the cancer cells and prevent further spread.

This service was performed 17 times for 16 patients

Destruction of cancer skin growth of trunk, arms, or legs, 0.5 cm or less

This procedure involves removing a small cancerous skin growth (0.5 cm or less) located on the trunk, arms, or legs. The growth is destroyed using techniques such as surgery, lasers, or radiation, aiding in the prevention of cancer spread.

This service was performed 13 times for 13 patients

Destruction of cancer skin growth of trunk, arms, or legs, 0.6-1.0 cm

This procedure involves the removal of a cancerous skin growth on the trunk, arms, or legs that is between 0.6 and 1.0 cm in size. The goal is to eliminate the cancerous cells and prevent further spread. The method of destruction may vary, including methods such as surgery, laser, or cryotherapy.

This service was performed 79 times for 71 patients

Destruction of cancer skin growth of trunk, arms, or legs, 1.1-2.0 cm

This procedure involves removing a cancerous skin growth on the trunk, arms, or legs that is between 1.1 and 2.0 cm in size. The growth is destroyed using methods like surgery, laser, or freezing, aiming to eliminate cancer and prevent its spread.

This service was performed 46 times for 42 patients

Destruction of precancer skin growth, 1 growth

"Destruction of precancer skin growth" is a procedure that eliminates a single precancerous skin growth. This is done to prevent it from developing into skin cancer. The growth may be removed using various methods such as cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, or topical medications.

This service was performed 2,225 times for 1,155 patients

Destruction of precancer skin growth, 15 or more growths

This procedure involves removing 15 or more precancerous skin growths to prevent them from developing into cancer. It's done using various methods like freezing, creams, or minor surgery. The goal is to protect your health by stopping cancer before it starts.

This service was performed 205 times for 124 patients

Destruction of precancer skin growth, 2-14 growths

This procedure involves removing 2-14 precancerous skin growths. The growths are treated to prevent them from potentially developing into skin cancer. The process is safe, with minimal discomfort, and promotes healthier skin.

This service was performed 8,737 times for 992 patients

Destruction of skin growth, 1-14 growths

"Destruction of skin growth" refers to a procedure where 1-14 abnormal skin growths are removed. This is done using methods such as freezing, burning, or laser therapy. It helps prevent the growth from causing discomfort or turning into a more serious condition.

This service was performed 843 times for 619 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 10-19 minutes

This is a routine check-up for patients who have previously seen the doctor. During this 10-19 minute visit, the doctor will review your health status, discuss any concerns, and manage ongoing treatments or medications. It's a chance to ensure your health is on track.

This service was performed 122 times for 101 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 1,378 times for 751 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 1,728 times for 1,135 patients

Intermediate repair of wound of scalp, underarms, trunk, arms, or legs, 2.6-7.5 cm

This procedure involves the repair of a wound between 2.6-7.5 cm located on the scalp, underarms, trunk, arms, or legs. The process includes cleaning, debridement (removal of damaged tissue), and suturing (stitching) of the wound to promote healing.

This service was performed 20 times for 19 patients

Melanoma (skin cancer) excision

Melanoma excision is a procedure where a surgeon removes melanoma, a type of skin cancer, and some surrounding healthy tissue. Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area. The goal is to completely remove the cancer and prevent its spread. Healing time varies.

This service was performed for 56 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 104 times for 104 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 75 times for 75 patients

Pathology examination of tissue using a microscope, intermediate complexity

A pathology examination of tissue with intermediate complexity involves studying a small sample of your body tissue under a microscope. This helps in identifying any abnormal cells or signs of disease. It's a detailed process requiring expert analysis to ensure accurate results.

This service was performed 151 times for 102 patients

Punch biopsy, first skin growth

A punch biopsy is a procedure where a small, circular tool is used to remove a sample of skin tissue. This is usually done to test a skin growth for potential issues. You may feel a pinch, but discomfort is minimal. The area heals quickly.

This service was performed 14 times for 13 patients

Removal of skin tag, 1-15 skin tags

Skin tag removal is a simple procedure where small, benign growths on the skin are carefully removed. This can be achieved through several methods such as freezing, burning, or cutting off the skin tags. The process is quick, typically painless with local anesthesia, and aids in skin smoothness.

This service was performed 58 times for 58 patients

Shaving of skin growth of body, arms, or legs, 0.5 cm or less

This is a simple procedure where a small skin growth on your body, arms, or legs, measuring 0.5 cm or less, is carefully shaved off. It's typically quick, with minimal discomfort. It helps to prevent any potential health issues related to the growth.

This service was performed 68 times for 58 patients

Shaving of skin growth of body, arms, or legs, 0.6-1.0 cm

This procedure involves the careful removal of a small skin growth on the body, arms, or legs. It's done by shaving off the growth that's 0.6-1.0 cm in size. It's a common, safe method to treat non-cancerous skin growths and improve skin appearance.

This service was performed 50 times for 49 patients

Shaving of skin growth of body, arms, or legs, 1.1-2.0 cm

This procedure involves the careful removal of a skin growth on your body, arms, or legs. The growth is between 1.1 and 2.0 cm. A special tool is used to shave off the growth, which is a quick and relatively painless process.

This service was performed 18 times for 18 patients

Shaving of skin growth of face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mouth, 0.6-1.0 cm

This procedure involves removing a small skin growth on the face or related areas like the ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mouth. The growth is gently shaved off, typically under local anesthesia. It's a quick, safe process for growths between 0.6-1.0 cm in size.

This service was performed 16 times for 16 patients

Shaving of skin growth of scalp, neck, hands, feet, or genitals, 0.5 cm or less

This is a procedure where a small skin growth on the scalp, neck, hands, or feet, measuring 0.5 cm or less, is carefully removed. The process involves shaving off the growth layer by layer to ensure complete removal. It's a safe and common practice.

This service was performed 12 times for 12 patients

Shaving of skin growth of scalp, neck, hands, feet, or genitals, 0.6-1.0 cm

This procedure involves the careful removal of a small skin growth, between 0.6-1.0 cm in size, from the scalp, neck, hands, or feet. It's done using a special tool to gently shave off the growth, ensuring minimal discomfort.

This service was performed 15 times for 13 patients

Tissue fungi or parasites

Tissue fungi or parasites refer to microorganisms that can infect various parts of the body. This may cause symptoms like fatigue, fever, and skin changes. Diagnosis involves testing samples from the affected area. Treatment often includes medication to eliminate the infection.

This service was performed 12 times for 12 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 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.

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.

Reviews for DR. JAMES RICHARD KUNKEL MD

There are currently no reviews for this provider. Be the first person to share your experience with this provider by filling out our review form. Your insights are appreciated and will help others make informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions