Under what conditions should practices split the bill when preparing claims?

When covered and noncovered services are both performed for a patient on the same day, it is essential for practices to split the bill when preparing claims. This approach ensures transparency in billing, allowing patients to discern which services are covered by their insurance and which are not. By separating the charges, healthcare providers adhere to Medicare regulations that require clear delineation between services that qualify for reimbursement and those that do not. This practice helps prevent confusion for both the patient and the payer regarding the costs associated with each specific service rendered. Transparent billing practices are crucial in maintaining compliance and ensuring that patients are fully informed about their financial responsibilities.