LAURA WALKER D.P.M
NPI 1437561537
Podiatrist - Foot & Ankle Surgery in Santa Maria, CA

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

Laura Walker 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.

Laura Walker 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) and a Home Health Agency (HHA).

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: 4082987748

  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: I20190613001075

  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: No

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.

Orthotic Devices

• DME-Orthotic Devices (DF003N)

  Ankle foot orthosis, multiligamentous ankle support, prefabricated, off-the-shelf (HCPCS:L1906)

  2 DME suppliers used 16 Medicare Claims 16 Services Paid

• DME-Orthotic Devices (DF003N)

  Walking boot, pneumatic and/or vacuum, with or without joints, with or without interface material, prefabricated, off-the-shelf (HCPCS:L4361)

  3 DME suppliers used 17 Medicare Claims 17 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.

Biopsy of fingernail or toenail

A biopsy of a fingernail or toenail is a medical procedure where a small piece of your nail or the tissue under it is removed for testing. This can help diagnose conditions like infections or skin diseases. The area is numbed for your comfort during the process.

This service was performed 25 times for 25 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 689 times for 372 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 86 times for 60 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 103 times for 69 patients

Injection of anesthetic and/or steroid drug into foot nerve

This procedure involves injecting a combination of anesthetic and/or steroid medication into a nerve in your foot. It's designed to alleviate pain and inflammation. You may experience temporary numbness or relief in the treated area.

This service was performed 45 times for 13 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 169 times for 80 patients

Limited ultrasound scan of joint or other extremity structure lacking blood vessels

A limited ultrasound scan of a joint or other extremity structure lacking blood vessels is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to create images of the inside of your body. This helps in diagnosing and monitoring conditions related to your joints or other similar structures.

This service was performed 131 times for 52 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 230 times for 230 patients

Permanent removal fingernail or toenail

Permanent removal of a fingernail or toenail, also known as avulsion, is a procedure performed to treat nail infections or severe ingrown nails. The nail is carefully removed under local anesthesia. After removal, a chemical is applied to prevent nail regrowth, ensuring the issue does not recur.

This service was performed 46 times for 38 patients

Placement of strapping to ankle or foot

Strapping to the ankle or foot is a procedure involving the application of tape or a similar material to provide support and stability. It can help manage injuries, reduce pain, and prevent further harm. The process is non-invasive and typically performed by a trained professional.

This service was performed 81 times for 67 patients

Removal of fingernails or toenails, 1-5 nails

This procedure involves the careful removal of 1-5 nails from fingers or toes. It's typically done to treat conditions like ingrown nails, fungal infections, or damaged nails. Local anesthesia is used for comfort, and the area heals over time with appropriate care.

This service was performed 34 times for 28 patients

Removal of fingernails or toenails, 6 or more nails

This procedure involves the removal of six or more fingernails or toenails. It's typically done to treat severe nail infections, persistent pain, or abnormal nail growth. Local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort. Healing usually takes a few weeks.

This service was performed 625 times for 226 patients

Removal of foreign body from tissue, accessed beneath the skin, complex

This procedure involves a skilled healthcare professional removing an object that has entered your tissue below the skin level. It's termed complex due to the object's depth, size, or location. Local anesthesia may be used to ensure comfort during the process.

This service was performed 53 times for 42 patients

Removal of muscle and/or tissue, 20.0 sq cm or less

This procedure involves the surgical removal of a specified area (20.0 sq cm or less) of muscle and/or tissue. It's typically done to treat conditions like tumors, infections, or injuries. Local or general anesthesia ensures comfort. Recovery time varies.

This service was performed 33 times for 17 patients

Removal of noncancer thickened skin growth, 1 growth

This procedure involves the removal of a thickened skin growth that is not cancerous. A healthcare professional will safely extract the growth, usually under local anesthesia. This process helps maintain skin health and prevent potential complications.

This service was performed 108 times for 75 patients

Removal of noncancer thickened skin growth, 2-4 growths

This procedure involves the safe removal of 2-4 noncancerous thickened skin growths. It's typically done under local anesthesia. The process helps to alleviate discomfort and prevent potential complications. It's a standard, low-risk procedure.

This service was performed 81 times for 52 patients

Removal of skin and tissue, 20.0 sq cm or less

This procedure involves the surgical removal of skin and tissue, up to 20.0 square cm in size. It's often performed to treat conditions like skin cancer or to remove moles, warts, and other skin lesions. The area is numbed and the unwanted tissue is carefully cut out.

This service was performed 85 times for 26 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 138 times for 91 patients

Shaving of skin growth of scalp, neck, hands, feet, or genitals, more than 2.0 cm

This procedure involves the careful removal of a skin growth larger than 2.0 cm, located on the scalp, neck, hands, or feet. The area is first numbed, then the growth is gently shaved off. This is a safe, routine process to ensure skin health.

This service was performed 15 times for 11 patients

Simple separation of fingernail or toenail from nail bed, first nail

This procedure involves the gentle removal of the first nail from its bed, often due to injury or infection. It's performed under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. The nail will gradually regrow over time.

This service was performed 19 times for 19 patients

Therapy procedure using exercise to develop strength, endurance, range of motion, and flexibility, each 15 minutes

This therapy involves exercises to boost strength, endurance, flexibility, and range of motion. Each session lasts 15 minutes. The goal is to improve physical function and overall health. It's a safe, beneficial method for enhancing well-being and fitness.

This service was performed 57 times for 56 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 59 times for 31 patients

X-ray of ankle, minimum of 3 views

An ankle X-ray is a quick, painless imaging test. It involves capturing at least three different images or 'views' of your ankle using small amounts of radiation. These images help identify any abnormalities or injuries, such as fractures or arthritis.

This service was performed 46 times for 37 patients

X-ray of foot, minimum of 3 views

An X-ray of the foot, minimum of 3 views, is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of the bones and tissues in your foot. This helps to identify fractures, infections, or other abnormalities. Multiple views ensure a comprehensive examination.

This service was performed 420 times for 238 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.

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