CMS Establishes New Disaster Code, Modifier

BALTIMORE–A month after Hurricane Katrina hit, CMS has created
a new condition code and modifier for disaster-related claims.

The new code and modifier, effective for dates of service on and
after Aug. 21, will help facilitate claims processing and track
services and items provided to victims of Katrina, as well as
future disasters. According to CMS, many of its normal operating
procedures have been relaxed to speed the provision of health care
services to storm evacuees because many beneficiaries–and
providers in host states–have no access to health care records or
verification of patient status as Medicare or Medicaid
beneficiaries.

The new condition code is DR (Disaster Related), and the new
modifier is CR (Catastrophe/Disaster Related).

For physicians or suppliers billing their local carrier or
durable medical equipment regional carrier, only the modifier
should be reported and not the condition code. CMS has instructed
Medicare contractors to recognize the new code and modifier on Oct.
3, if possible, but no later than Oct. 31.

For more information on the new code and modifier,
click here.