RALPH W STAFFORD JR. MD
NPI 1972596013
Internal Medicine - Nephrology in Chattanooga, TN

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

Ralph Stafford 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.

Ralph Stafford 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: 1951398551

  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: I20040427000488, I20061026000327

  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.

Unknown

• Treatment-Treatment - Miscellaneous (RX029N)

  Azathioprine, oral, 50 mg (HCPCS:J7500)

  1 DME suppliers used 12 Medicare Claims 360 Services Paid

• Treatment-Treatment - Miscellaneous (RX029N)

  Cyclosporine, oral, 100 mg (HCPCS:J7502)

  2 DME suppliers used 16 Medicare Claims 960 Services Paid

• Treatment-Treatment - Miscellaneous (RX029N)

  Tacrolimus, immediate release, oral, 1 mg (HCPCS:J7507)

  10 DME suppliers used 104 Medicare Claims 7620 Services Paid

• Treatment-Treatment - Miscellaneous (RX029N)

  Prednisone, immediate release or delayed release, oral, 1 mg (HCPCS:J7512)

  4 DME suppliers used 38 Medicare Claims 4350 Services Paid

• Treatment-Treatment - Miscellaneous (RX029N)

  Mycophenolate mofetil, oral, 250 mg (HCPCS:J7517)

  9 DME suppliers used 97 Medicare Claims 12840 Services Paid

• Treatment-Treatment - Miscellaneous (RX029N)

  Mycophenolic acid, oral, 180 mg (HCPCS:J7518)

  3 DME suppliers used 33 Medicare Claims 3090 Services Paid

• Treatment-Chemotherapy (RH012N)

  Pharmacy supply fee for oral anti-cancer, oral anti-emetic or immunosuppressive drug(s); for the first prescription in a 30-day period (HCPCS:Q0511)

  11 DME suppliers used 129 Medicare Claims 129 Services Paid

• Treatment-Chemotherapy (RH012N)

  Pharmacy supply fee for oral anti-cancer, oral anti-emetic or immunosuppressive drug(s); for a subsequent prescription in a 30-day period (HCPCS:Q0512)

  13 DME suppliers used 159 Medicare Claims 185 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.

Annual depression screening, 15 minutes

An annual depression screening is a short, routine evaluation to check for signs of depression. It involves answering a series of questions about your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. The process takes about 15 minutes and helps detect depression early for better management.

This service was performed 114 times for 114 patients

Automated urinalysis test

An automated urinalysis test is a routine examination that checks your urine for various substances. It can help identify potential health issues such as kidney problems or diabetes. The test uses a machine to analyze a small urine sample, providing quick and accurate results.

This service was performed 384 times for 252 patients

Blood test, comprehensive group of blood chemicals

A comprehensive group of blood chemicals test, also known as a comprehensive metabolic panel, is a blood test that measures your sugar level, electrolyte and fluid balance, kidney function, and liver function. This helps to check your body's overall health.

This service was performed 32 times for 29 patients

Blood test, lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides)

A lipid panel is a blood test that measures fats and fatty substances, such as cholesterol and triglycerides. These substances are used by your body as a source of energy. High levels can lead to health issues, including heart disease.

This service was performed 46 times for 36 patients

Chronic care management services for two or more chronic conditions, additional 20 minutes of clinical staff time directed by health care professional, per calendar month

Chronic Care Management services involve regular check-ins with healthcare professionals to manage two or more chronic conditions. It includes an additional 20 minutes of clinical staff time per month, directed by a healthcare professional, to ensure optimal health management.

This service was performed 27 times for 15 patients

Chronic care management services, first 20 minutes of clinical staff time directed by health care professional, per calendar month

Chronic care management services involve a healthcare professional directing clinical staff in managing your chronic conditions. This includes the first 20 minutes per month of services like medication management, care coordination, and health monitoring to help improve your health and quality of life.

This service was performed 453 times for 91 patients

Complete blood cell count (red cells, white blood cell, platelets), automated test and automated differential white blood cell count

A Complete Blood Cell Count is a common test that measures various components of the blood, including red cells (carry oxygen), white cells (fight infection), and platelets (help blood clot). An automated test ensures accuracy. The differential count provides detailed information about white cell types.

This service was performed 492 times for 303 patients

Creatinine level to test for kidney function or muscle injury

A creatinine level test measures the amount of creatinine in your blood. This substance is a waste product from normal muscle use. Higher levels can indicate possible kidney dysfunction or muscle injury. This test helps monitor kidney health.

This service was performed 482 times for 301 patients

Cystatin c (enzyme inhibitor) level

Cystatin C level is a blood test used to assess kidney function. It measures the amount of a protein, Cystatin C, that is filtered by your kidneys. High levels may indicate that your kidneys are not functioning properly.

This service was performed 120 times for 102 patients

Dialysis services, 4 or more physician visits per month (20 years or older)

Dialysis is a treatment that filters and purifies your blood using a machine. It helps keep your fluids and electrolytes in balance when the kidneys can't do their job. This service includes 4 or more visits per month with a physician to monitor your health and adjust your treatment as needed.

This service was performed 162 times for 24 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 360 times for 269 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 45 times for 29 patients

Ferritin (blood protein) level

A Ferritin level test measures the amount of ferritin, a protein that stores iron, in your blood. It helps determine how much iron your body is storing. If levels are low, it may indicate iron deficiency, while high levels could signify conditions like iron overload.

This service was performed 279 times for 203 patients

Follow-up hospital inpatient care per day, typically 15 minutes

Follow-up hospital inpatient care is a daily service where a healthcare professional checks on your health progress during your hospital stay. Each session typically lasts 15 minutes, involving updates on your condition and adjustments to your treatment plan, if necessary.

This service was performed 13 times for 11 patients

Follow-up hospital inpatient care per day, typically 25 minutes

Follow-up hospital inpatient care involves daily check-ups while you're admitted in the hospital. Typically, a healthcare provider spends about 25 minutes each day reviewing your condition, adjusting treatment if needed, and answering any questions you might have.

This service was performed 221 times for 122 patients

Follow-up hospital inpatient care per day, typically 35 minutes

Follow-up hospital inpatient care per day typically involves a 35-minute check-up by your healthcare provider. This service includes monitoring your health progress, adjusting your treatment plan if needed, and answering any questions you may have about your condition or care.

This service was performed 544 times for 220 patients

Hemodialysis procedure with physician evaluation

Hemodialysis is a treatment that uses a machine to filter waste and excess fluid from your blood when your kidneys can't. A physician checks your health before, during, and after the procedure to ensure it's working effectively for you.

This service was performed 13 times for 13 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 34 times for 30 patients

Initial hospital inpatient care per day, typically 50 minutes

Initial hospital inpatient care is a service where a healthcare provider spends about 50 minutes per day overseeing your care while you're admitted in the hospital. This includes reviewing your health status, planning your treatment, and ensuring your safety and comfort.

This service was performed 44 times for 44 patients

Initial hospital inpatient care per day, typically 70 minutes

Initial hospital inpatient care per day, typically 70 minutes, refers to the daily medical service provided to patients admitted to the hospital. This includes a comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, treatment plan, and monitoring of your health condition. It ensures your well-being during your hospital stay.

This service was performed 50 times for 50 patients

Insertion of needle into vein for collection of blood sample

This procedure involves inserting a small needle into a vein, typically in your arm, to collect a blood sample. It's a quick and simple process to help diagnose or monitor health conditions. You may feel a small prick, but discomfort is minimal.

This service was performed 417 times for 270 patients

Iron binding capacity

Iron binding capacity is a blood test that measures how well your body can bind and transport iron. This helps your healthcare provider assess if your body has too little or too much iron, which can indicate certain health conditions.

This service was performed 285 times for 205 patients

Iron level

An iron level test measures the amount of iron in your blood. Iron is crucial for producing hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. This test helps identify iron deficiencies or excesses, which can lead to conditions like anemia or hemochromatosis.

This service was performed 284 times for 206 patients

Kidney function blood test panel

A kidney function blood test panel checks how well your kidneys are working. It measures levels of various substances in your blood, including proteins, electrolytes, and waste products. The results can help detect potential kidney issues early.

This service was performed 483 times for 292 patients

Magnesium level

A magnesium level test is a simple blood test that measures the amount of magnesium in your body. Magnesium is a crucial mineral that helps your nerves, muscles, and heart function properly. The test can help detect health conditions like kidney disease or malnutrition.

This service was performed 18 times for 15 patients

Management using the results of remote vital sign monitoring per calendar month, each additional 20 minutes

This service involves analyzing your vital signs, like heart rate and blood pressure, remotely collected over a month. Each additional 20 minutes spent on management refers to extra time spent reviewing, interpreting your data, and planning your care. It's a critical part of ensuring your wellbeing.

This service was performed 30 times for 20 patients

Management using the results of remote vital sign monitoring per calendar month, first 20 minutes

This service involves reviewing and managing your health data, which is remotely monitored and collected. Your vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure are tracked regularly throughout the month. The first 20 minutes of this data analysis per month is included in this service.

This service was performed 522 times for 106 patients

Manual urinalysis test with examination using microscope, automated

A manual urinalysis test with automated microscopic examination is a lab process that checks your urine for health indicators. It involves a machine scanning your sample to identify any abnormal elements, which can assist in diagnosing various conditions.

This service was performed 107 times for 88 patients

Measure of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (covid-19) antibody

This procedure checks for antibodies to the COVID-19 virus in your blood. It indicates whether you've had a past infection. The body produces these antibodies while fighting off the virus. It's not a test for current infection.

This service was performed 20 times for 19 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 23 times for 23 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 34 times for 34 patients

Parathormone (parathyroid hormone) level

The Parathormone level test measures the amount of parathyroid hormone in your blood. This hormone controls calcium and phosphorus levels in the body, which are vital for bone health. Abnormal levels may indicate issues like kidney disease or parathyroid gland disorders.

This service was performed 399 times for 273 patients

Phosphate level

A phosphate level test measures the amount of phosphate in your blood. Phosphate is a chemical that contains the mineral phosphorus, crucial for energy production, muscle and nerve function, and bone growth. Imbalances may indicate kidney disease or other health issues.

This service was performed 32 times for 30 patients

Red blood count automated, with additional calculations

An automated red blood cell count is a laboratory test that counts the number of red blood cells in your blood. This test also includes additional calculations to measure the size, volume, and hemoglobin concentration of these cells. It helps to identify any abnormalities in your blood.

This service was performed 271 times for 199 patients

Remote monitoring of physiologic parameters, initial set-up and patient education on use of equipment

Remote monitoring of physiologic parameters involves using special equipment to track vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure from a distance. The initial set-up includes installing the device and teaching the patient how to use it correctly for accurate readings.

This service was performed 43 times for 42 patients

Remote monitoring of physiologic parameters, initial supply of devices with daily recordings or programmed alerts transmission, each 30 days

This service involves using devices to remotely track body functions like heart rate or blood pressure. These devices, provided initially, record data daily or send alerts if readings are abnormal. The service is renewed every 30 days.

This service was performed 330 times for 91 patients

Total protein level, urine

The Total Protein Level in urine test measures the amount of protein present in your urine. This helps to check kidney health as high levels may indicate a problem. It's a simple, non-invasive procedure involving a urine sample.

This service was performed 497 times for 304 patients

Uric acid level, blood

A blood uric acid level test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood. Uric acid is a waste product that your body produces when it breaks down purines, substances found in your body and in certain foods. High levels may lead to gout or kidney stones.

This service was performed 60 times for 50 patients

Vitamin d-3 level

A Vitamin D-3 level test measures the amount of Vitamin D-3, a crucial nutrient, in your body. This test helps identify if your levels are too low or too high. Low levels may lead to bone weakness, while high levels could harm your kidneys. It's a simple blood test.

This service was performed 323 times for 228 patients

Physician Visit Costs

The typical physician office visit costs for Medicare beneficiaries in this area are: $30.45 for a new patient copayment and $23.4 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 37404 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 76.27, 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: 76.27 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: 66.21

  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.

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. Ralph Stafford is affiliated with the following medical facilities:

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Frequently Asked Questions