2026 Gastroenterology Reimbursement and Coding Update (Virtual) | November 2025-Your Questions and Priorities: Roundtable Discussion and Closing Remarks

Video Transcription

Video Summary

This comprehensive Q&A session addressed complex issues surrounding colonoscopy screening, billing, coding, and documentation, particularly in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and ulcerative colitis. Experts discussed proper coding practices when performing random biopsies during screening colonoscopies in high-risk IBD patients, emphasizing the importance of clear documentation to justify cancer surveillance intent. The group reviewed surveillance colonoscopy timing and coding based on previous polyp history and highlighted nuances in billing practices involving advanced practice providers and incident-to services. The panel also explored Medicare and commercial payer policies affecting claims audits, cost-sharing differences in screening colonoscopies for patients with family history of colorectal cancer, and the implications of diagnostic vs. screening colonoscopy overlap. Additionally, guidance was offered on supervision requirements for residents and fellows during teaching hospital consultations, including the use of modifiers and the potential impact of remote supervision via telehealth. Emerging topics, such as the cautious adoption of ambient AI for note generation and uncertainties in remote patient monitoring codes, were touched upon. The session concluded with an encouragement to focus on medical necessity, maintain clear communication between providers and coders, and prepare for evolving regulations and technologies. Participants were invited to a follow-up Webinar for strategic discussions on GI practice survival and revenue cycle readiness in 2026.

Keywords

colonoscopy screening

inflammatory bowel disease

coding and billing

cancer surveillance

Medicare policies

telehealth supervision

ambient AI in healthcare