THOMAS S HIGGINS JR. MD
NPI 1750543237
Otolaryngology in Louisville, KY

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

Thomas Higgins 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.

Thomas Higgins 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: 4486824935

  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: I20120710000391

  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.

Biopsy or removal of nasal polyp or tissue using an endoscope

A nasal biopsy or polyp removal is a procedure where an endoscope, a thin tube with a light and camera, is inserted into the nose. This allows the doctor to see and remove abnormal tissues or polyps, which are small growths. This procedure helps diagnose or treat nasal issues.

This service was performed 127 times for 58 patients

Comprehensive hearing and speech recognition test

A comprehensive hearing and speech recognition test assesses your ability to hear and understand spoken words. It includes hearing tests to check for issues with sound perception and speech tests to evaluate your word recognition. It's a crucial step in identifying any hearing or speech problems.

This service was performed 60 times for 55 patients

Computer-assisted procedure outside membrane covering brain

A computer-assisted procedure outside the brain's membrane involves using advanced technology to help doctors accurately navigate and perform operations near the brain. This method enhances precision, safety, and effectiveness, potentially reducing recovery time.

This service was performed 22 times for 21 patients

Ct guidance for needle or tube localization

CT guidance for needle or tube localization is a procedure where a CT scan is used to accurately position a needle or tube within the body. It helps in diagnosing or treating conditions by ensuring precise placement for procedures such as biopsies or drainages.

This service was performed 29 times for 29 patients

Ct scan of face without contrast

A CT scan of the face without contrast is a non-invasive imaging procedure. It uses X-rays to create detailed pictures of your face, including bones, soft tissues, and blood vessels. It's often used to diagnose diseases, injuries, or abnormalities. No contrast dye is used in this procedure.

This service was performed 22 times for 22 patients

Diagnostic exam of nasal passages using an endoscope

A diagnostic exam of nasal passages using an endoscope is a non-invasive procedure. A small, flexible tube with a light and camera at the end, called an endoscope, is inserted into the nose. This allows the doctor to view the nasal passages and sinuses, helping to identify any issues.

This service was performed 566 times for 234 patients

Diagnostic exam of voice box using a flexible endoscope

This procedure involves a doctor examining your voice box using a flexible endoscope, a thin tube with a light and camera. It's inserted through your nose or mouth to visualize your throat area. It helps detect any abnormalities in your voice box, ensuring optimal vocal health.

This service was performed 14 times for 12 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 384 times for 184 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 317 times for 165 patients

Exam of ear using a microscope

An exam of the ear using a microscope allows a detailed view of the ear structures. This non-invasive procedure helps identify issues such as infections, blockages, or ear damage. It's a safe, quick, and painless way to evaluate ear health.

This service was performed 63 times for 41 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 11 times for 11 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 59 times for 59 patients

Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of established patient that may not require presence of healthcare professional

This service involves an outpatient visit for established patients who may not need direct interaction with a healthcare professional. It could include reviewing test results, monitoring existing conditions, or adjusting treatment plans. It's typically done remotely, ensuring your comfort and convenience.

This service was performed 15 times for 11 patients

Professional service for multiple injections of allergen

The professional service for multiple injections of allergens involves administering small doses of specific allergens into your body. This is done to help your immune system become less sensitive to them, reducing your allergic reaction over time. It's a safe, effective way to manage allergies.

This service was performed 121 times for 12 patients

Professional service for preparation and provision of 1 or more antigens

This service involves the creation and supply of antigens, substances that stimulate your immune system to fight diseases. These antigens can be used in vaccines or allergy tests to help your body build defenses against specific health threats.

This service was performed 1,170 times for 60 patients

Professional service for single injection of allergen

A single allergen injection is a procedure where a small amount of a specific allergen is injected into your body. This is done to test your body's reaction to the allergen or to help your immune system become less sensitive to it, reducing allergic symptoms.

This service was performed 447 times for 38 patients

Removal of impacted cerumen (one or both ears) by physician on same date of service as audiologic function testing

This procedure involves a doctor removing impacted earwax (cerumen) from one or both ears. This is often done on the same day as hearing function tests. The process helps to clear the ear canal, improving hearing and ensuring accurate test results.

This service was performed 24 times for 23 patients

Removal of impacted ear wax

Impacted ear wax removal is a safe procedure to clear blockages in the ear canal caused by hardened ear wax. A healthcare professional uses specialized tools or a gentle irrigation method to loosen and remove the wax, improving hearing and alleviating discomfort.

This service was performed 32 times for 27 patients

Removal of nasal sinus tissue using an endoscope

This procedure, known as endoscopic sinus surgery, involves using a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera to view and remove problematic nasal sinus tissue. It helps to alleviate sinus issues and improve breathing.

This service was performed 14 times for 14 patients

Test for allergy using allergenic extract injected into skin

An allergy skin test involves injecting a small amount of allergenic extract into your skin. This test helps determine if you're allergic to specific substances. If allergic, a small red bump appears at the test site. It's safe and quick.

This service was performed 435 times for 11 patients

Test to assess middle ear function

A test to assess middle ear function, also known as an impedance audiometry, helps evaluate how well your middle ear works. It measures the movement of your eardrum in response to changes in air pressure. This can help identify issues like fluid build-up, ear infections, or eardrum perforations.

This service was performed 59 times for 54 patients

Physician Visit Costs

The typical physician office visit costs for Medicare beneficiaries in this area are: $30.69 for a new patient copayment and $16.56 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 40205 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 100, 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: 100 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: 100

  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: 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

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. Thomas Higgins 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 1750543237 is valid because the calculated check digit 7 using the Luhn validation algorithm matches the last digit of the original NPI number.

Other Providers at the Same Location

The following 4 providers are registered at the same or nearby location.

Frequently Asked Questions