CMS's NEW Pediatric G Code Explained: What Every SLP Needs to Know

CMS surprised speech-language pathologists with a proposed pediatric G code, creating new questions about reimbursement, billing, and the future of pediatric speech therapy.In this episode, Jeanette Benigas, PhD/SLP, is joined by billing expert Rick Gawenda and pediatric private practice owner Emily Watkins, MCD/SLP, to break down what the proposed G code actually means, who it applies to, and why it matters far beyond Medicare.Topics include:• Who the proposed pediatric G code applies to• Why commercial insurance and Medicaid may choose different billing paths• Timed CPT codes vs. the proposed G code• How reimbursement could change for pediatric practices• Operational challenges for clinics and business owners• Why giving payers multiple billing options may create inconsistencies• The risks surrounding untimed codes and future payer audits• Why understanding RVUs and practice expense matters• What clinicians and practice owners should consider before submitting comments to CMSWhether you're an employee, private practice owner, school-based SLP, or administrator, these proposed coding changes have the potential to affect your reimbursement, documentation, scheduling, and future practice.This episode is designed to help you understand the proposal, not tell you what position to take, so you can make informed decisions on how to comment before the CMS comment period closes.✨ Grateful to Chomper Champs for bringing so much positivity and fun to the pediatric SLP space. Follow the link to order the 🦺 Fix SLP Construction Accessory Kit 🧰, or bundle and save. Fix SLP receives 20% of every purchase, so it’s a win for everyone! ✨🚧 Want to earn some PDHs or CEUs with a discount? Find our most up-to-date promo codes and discounts here.🚧 We want to collaborate with YOU. If you would like to lead or join your state team, please email your name and state to [email protected].🚧 Become a sustaining partner to support our work.🚧 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.🚧 Find all our information at fixslp.com, and sign up for our email list to be alerted to new episodes and content.🚧 Email us at [email protected].🚧 Leave a message on our Minivan Meltdown line! ★ Support this podcast ★