HOWARD B BLUMSTEIN M.D.
NPI 1598751471
Internal Medicine - Rheumatology in Smithtown, NY

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

Howard Blumstein 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.

Howard Blumstein 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: 7012964471

  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: I20050407000331

  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.

Administration of chemotherapy into vein, 1 hour or less

Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. When administered into a vein, it's often through an IV. This procedure usually lasts 1 hour or less. You may feel a slight pinch as the needle is inserted, but it's generally painless.

This service was performed 51 times for 46 patients

Administration of chemotherapy into vein, each additional hour

Chemotherapy is a treatment method that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. The drugs are administered into a vein, usually in the arm. Each additional hour of chemotherapy allows for more of the medication to enter your bloodstream to fight against the cancer cells.

This service was performed 65 times for 20 patients

Administration of non-hormonal anti-neoplastic chemotherapy under skin or into muscle

This procedure involves giving anti-cancer drugs, which don't contain hormones, into the muscle or under the skin. These drugs help to stop the growth of cancer cells. The process is usually quick and done by a healthcare professional.

This service was performed 91 times for 46 patients

Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from large joint

This procedure involves using a needle to remove (aspiration) or introduce (injection) fluid into a large joint like the knee or hip. It can help diagnose conditions, relieve discomfort, or deliver medication directly to the joint.

This service was performed 131 times for 59 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 191 times for 161 patients

Dxa bone density measurement of hip, pelvis, spine

A DXA bone density measurement is a simple, quick, and non-invasive procedure that assesses the strength of your bones. This test uses X-rays to measure the amount of minerals, mainly calcium, in the hip, pelvis, and spine. It helps in early detection of osteoporosis or other bone diseases.

This service was performed 23 times for 23 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 180 times for 134 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 1,481 times for 521 patients

Hyaluronan or derivative, hymovis, for intra-articular injection, 1 mg

Hymovis is a treatment involving the injection of a substance called hyaluronan into a joint. This substance, naturally found in the body, helps lubricate and cushion your joints. The treatment can help reduce joint pain and improve mobility.

This service was performed 1,968 times for 22 patients

Infusion into a vein for therapy, prevention, or diagnosis, 1 hour or less

This is a procedure where a medical professional inserts a small tube into your vein to deliver medication, nutrients, or fluids directly into your bloodstream. This can be for treatment, prevention, or diagnosis. The process typically takes less than an hour.

This service was performed 57 times for 53 patients

Infusion, normal saline solution, 250 cc

An infusion of normal saline solution, 250 cc, involves administering a sterile saltwater solution into your body through a vein, usually in your arm. This helps to replenish fluids, maintain hydration, and balance electrolytes in your body.

This service was performed 97 times for 82 patients

Injection of drug or substance into vein

This procedure involves introducing a medication or substance directly into your vein using a syringe. It's a quick and efficient way to deliver treatment throughout your body. You might feel a small prick when the needle enters. It's generally safe and effective.

This service was performed 24 times for 18 patients

Injection of drug or substance under skin or into muscle

This procedure involves administering medication directly under the skin or into a muscle. A small needle is used to inject the drug, allowing it to be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. It's a common method for delivering a variety of medications.

This service was performed 393 times for 123 patients

Injection, abatacept, 10 mg (code may be used for medicare when drug administered under the direct supervision of a physician, not for use when drug is self administered)

Abatacept is a medication administered via injection under a doctor's supervision. It's used to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis by moderating the immune system. This code applies when the doctor administers the drug, not for self-administration.

This service was performed 2,675 times for 30 patients

Injection, certolizumab pegol, 1 mg (code may be used for medicare when drug administered under the direct supervision of a physician, not for use when drug is self administered)

Certolizumab pegol is a medication injected under a doctor's supervision. It's used to treat certain inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. The injection helps reduce symptoms like pain and swelling. Note that this drug isn't for self-administration.

This service was performed 60,000 times for 21 patients

Injection, denosumab, 1 mg

Denosumab is a medication given via injection to strengthen your bones. It works by slowing down the cells that break down bone, improving bone density and reducing the risk of fractures. It's often used for osteoporosis treatment.

This service was performed 9,780 times for 107 patients

Injection, golimumab, 1 mg, for intravenous use

Golimumab is a medication given through an IV (a small tube in your vein). It helps to reduce inflammation and pain by blocking a protein in your body that causes inflammation. It's often used to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

This service was performed 2,850 times for 16 patients

Injection, infliximab, excludes biosimilar, 10 mg

Infliximab is a medication given via injection to treat certain autoimmune conditions. It works by blocking the action of a substance in your body that causes inflammation. Each dose is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

This service was performed 690 times for 12 patients

Injection, tocilizumab, 1 mg

Tocilizumab is a medication administered via injection. It's used to treat certain conditions like rheumatoid arthritis by reducing inflammation in the body. It works by blocking a substance in the body that leads to inflammation.

This service was performed 6,360 times for 11 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 208 times for 34 patients

Injection, zoledronic acid, 1 mg

Zoledronic acid is a medication given via injection to strengthen bones. It's often used in patients with osteoporosis or certain types of cancer. The injection helps reduce the risk of fractures and other bone complications.

This service was performed 60 times for 12 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 1,196 times for 509 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 75 times for 75 patients

Red blood cell sedimentation rate, to detect inflammation, non-automated

The Red Blood Cell Sedimentation Rate test measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. If they settle faster than normal, it may indicate inflammation in the body. This test is non-automated, meaning it's manually performed by a lab technician.

This service was performed 186 times for 152 patients

Urinalysis, manual test

A urinalysis is a simple, non-invasive test that checks the urine for various elements such as sugar, protein, and signs of infection. It can help detect many common conditions, including kidney disease and diabetes. The manual test involves a lab technician examining a urine sample.

This service was performed 47 times for 41 patients

Physician Visit Costs

The typical physician office visit costs for Medicare beneficiaries in this area are: $38.57 for a new patient copayment and $29.4 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 11787 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 75, 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: 75 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: N/A

  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: N/A

  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. Howard Blumstein is affiliated with the following medical facilities:

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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 1598751471 is valid because the calculated check digit 1 using the Luhn validation algorithm matches the last digit of the original NPI number.

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The following 6 providers are registered at the same or nearby location.

Frequently Asked Questions