DR. MELANIE L. APPELL MD
NPI 1568492775
Dermatology in Birmingham, AL

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

Melanie Appell 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.

Melanie Appell 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: 2567595689

  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: I20100727000011

  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

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.

Aminolevulinic acid hcl for topical administration, 20%, single unit dosage form (354 mg)

Aminolevulinic Acid HCL is a medication applied to the skin to treat certain types of skin conditions. It works by making the skin more sensitive to light, which helps to kill abnormal skin cells. The 20% solution is a single dose of 354 mg.

This service was performed 25 times for 17 patients

Application of light to destroy precancer skin growth

This procedure involves the use of special light to eradicate precancerous skin growths. The light targets abnormal cells causing them to die off, while leaving healthy skin unharmed. It's a non-invasive method that helps prevent skin cancer.

This service was performed 16 times for 15 patients

Biopsy of ear

A biopsy of the ear is a medical procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken from your ear for examination. This helps doctors diagnose any abnormalities or diseases. It's a simple process, usually done under local anesthesia, and has minimal risks.

This service was performed 18 times for 16 patients

Biopsy of related skin growth, each additional growth

A biopsy of related skin growth is a procedure where a small piece of skin growth is removed for testing. If additional growths are identified, they may also be biopsied. This helps in diagnosing skin conditions and planning appropriate treatment.

This service was performed 40 times for 26 patients

Biopsy of related skin growth, first growth

A biopsy of a skin growth involves taking a small sample of the growth to examine it under a microscope. This helps determine if the growth is harmful. The procedure is typically quick, with minimal discomfort. It's a crucial step in ensuring your skin's health.

This service was performed 149 times for 137 patients

Destruction of cancer skin growth of trunk, arms, or legs, 0.6-1.0 cm

This procedure involves the removal of a cancerous skin growth on the trunk, arms, or legs that is between 0.6 and 1.0 cm in size. The goal is to eliminate the cancerous cells and prevent further spread. The method of destruction may vary, including methods such as surgery, laser, or cryotherapy.

This service was performed 12 times for 12 patients

Destruction of cancer skin growth of trunk, arms, or legs, 1.1-2.0 cm

This procedure involves removing a cancerous skin growth on the trunk, arms, or legs that is between 1.1 and 2.0 cm in size. The growth is destroyed using methods like surgery, laser, or freezing, aiming to eliminate cancer and prevent its spread.

This service was performed 17 times for 17 patients

Destruction of precancer skin growth, 1 growth

"Destruction of precancer skin growth" is a procedure that eliminates a single precancerous skin growth. This is done to prevent it from developing into skin cancer. The growth may be removed using various methods such as cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, or topical medications.

This service was performed 371 times for 299 patients

Destruction of precancer skin growth, 2-14 growths

This procedure involves removing 2-14 precancerous skin growths. The growths are treated to prevent them from potentially developing into skin cancer. The process is safe, with minimal discomfort, and promotes healthier skin.

This service was performed 832 times for 185 patients

Destruction of skin growth, 1-14 growths

"Destruction of skin growth" refers to a procedure where 1-14 abnormal skin growths are removed. This is done using methods such as freezing, burning, or laser therapy. It helps prevent the growth from causing discomfort or turning into a more serious condition.

This service was performed 71 times for 67 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 10-19 minutes

This is a routine check-up for patients who have previously seen the doctor. During this 10-19 minute visit, the doctor will review your health status, discuss any concerns, and manage ongoing treatments or medications. It's a chance to ensure your health is on track.

This service was performed 95 times for 88 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 826 times for 607 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 21 times for 21 patients

Injection into skin growth, 1-7 growths

This procedure involves injecting medication into 1-7 skin growths. The medication helps to reduce the size of the growths or completely eliminate them. It's a simple, quick, and usually painless process performed by a medical professional.

This service was performed 20 times for 19 patients

Injection, triamcinolone acetonide, not otherwise specified, 10 mg

Triamcinolone acetonide is a medication used to reduce inflammation in the body. It's given as a 10 mg injection for conditions like allergies, arthritis, or skin problems. The injection helps to decrease swelling, redness, and itching.

This service was performed 88 times for 35 patients

Intermediate repair of wound of scalp, underarms, trunk, arms, or legs, 2.6-7.5 cm

This procedure involves the repair of a wound between 2.6-7.5 cm located on the scalp, underarms, trunk, arms, or legs. The process includes cleaning, debridement (removal of damaged tissue), and suturing (stitching) of the wound to promote healing.

This service was performed 24 times for 23 patients

Melanoma (skin cancer) excision

Melanoma excision is a procedure where a surgeon removes melanoma, a type of skin cancer, and some surrounding healthy tissue. Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area. The goal is to completely remove the cancer and prevent its spread. Healing time varies.

This service was performed for 72 patients

New patient office or other outpatient visit, 15-29 minutes

This service involves an initial visit to the doctor's office or other outpatient setting. It typically lasts between 15-29 minutes. The doctor will review your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and discuss your health concerns. It's a chance to establish your health baseline and address any immediate medical issues.

This service was performed 16 times for 16 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 71 times for 71 patients

Obtaining data needed to develop the optimal radiation treatment, 1 treatment area

This procedure involves gathering essential information to create the best radiation treatment plan for a specific area. It includes scanning the treatment area and using this data to calculate the precise dose of radiation needed to target the disease effectively, while sparing healthy tissue.

This service was performed 146 times for 22 patients

Removal of skin tag, 1-15 skin tags

Skin tag removal is a simple procedure where small, benign growths on the skin are carefully removed. This can be achieved through several methods such as freezing, burning, or cutting off the skin tags. The process is quick, typically painless with local anesthesia, and aids in skin smoothness.

This service was performed 29 times for 28 patients

Shaving of skin growth of body, arms, or legs, 0.5 cm or less

This is a simple procedure where a small skin growth on your body, arms, or legs, measuring 0.5 cm or less, is carefully shaved off. It's typically quick, with minimal discomfort. It helps to prevent any potential health issues related to the growth.

This service was performed 74 times for 46 patients

Shaving of skin growth of body, arms, or legs, 0.6-1.0 cm

This procedure involves the careful removal of a small skin growth on the body, arms, or legs. It's done by shaving off the growth that's 0.6-1.0 cm in size. It's a common, safe method to treat non-cancerous skin growths and improve skin appearance.

This service was performed 38 times for 36 patients

Shaving of skin growth of body, arms, or legs, 1.1-2.0 cm

This procedure involves the careful removal of a skin growth on your body, arms, or legs. The growth is between 1.1 and 2.0 cm. A special tool is used to shave off the growth, which is a quick and relatively painless process.

This service was performed 18 times for 16 patients

Shaving of skin growth of face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mouth, 0.5 cm or less

This procedure involves the careful removal of a small skin growth on the face or related areas. A medical professional uses a special tool to gently shave off the growth, which is 0.5 cm or less. It's a common, safe procedure.

This service was performed 18 times for 16 patients

Superficial and/or low voltage radiation treatment delivery

Superficial and/or low voltage radiation treatment delivery is a non-invasive procedure used to treat certain diseases like skin cancer. It uses low energy radiation to target and destroy abnormal cells, aiding in halting disease progression.

This service was performed 144 times for 22 patients

Ultrasonic guidance for placement of radiation therapy fields

Ultrasonic guidance for radiation therapy fields involves using sound waves to create images of the treatment area. This helps to precisely locate the area needing radiation therapy, ensuring the treatment is directed accurately, minimizing harm to healthy tissues.

This service was performed 155 times for 23 patients

Physician Visit Costs

The typical physician office visit costs for Medicare beneficiaries in this area are: $20.47 for a new patient copayment and $16.52 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 35205 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 86.77, 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 provider also has detailed performance information the following quality measures: .

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: 86.77 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: 77.59

  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: 97

  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.

MIPS Quality Measures

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NPI Validation Check Digit Calculation

The following table explains the step by step NPI number validation process using the ISO standard Luhn algorithm.

The NPI number 1568492775 is valid because the calculated check digit 5 using the Luhn validation algorithm matches the last digit of the original NPI number.

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The following 7 providers are registered at the same or nearby location.

Frequently Asked Questions