Need to know how to request an Independent Bill Review? Then keep reading to learn all the information you need, from some basic concepts to the IBR process described step by step.
What Is an Independent Bill Review?
In California, an Independent Bill Review (or IBR, for short) is a non-judicial process for resolving medical legal disputes where the medical provider disagrees with the amount paid by a claims administrator on a bill after a second review.
Any medical service bill where the fee is determined by a fee schedule established by the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) can be resolved through IBR.
For more information about IBR, check out our previous blogs, “The Second Bill Review (SBR)/Independent Bill Review (IBR) Process,” and “Medical Legal Billing in California: Bill Proposes Change to Independent Bill Review (IBR) Fees”
How To Request an Independent Bill Review (IBR)?
The first rule to remember is that an Independent Bill Review cannot be requested until after the claims administrator has issued a decision regarding a timely-requested Second Bill Review (SBR).
If the health care provider disagrees with the Second Bill Review Decision, then they have to submit an application for Independent Bill Review Either electronically or in hard copy.
Providers submitting their IBR request electronically can do it by registering as a user on the Maximus Federal Services IBR Tracking System.
Those who prefer to file in hard copy should mail the following information:
- Completed application for Independent Bill Review
- A check or money order for IBR fee of $180
- Any required and/or supporting documentation
Below is the mailing information for hard-copy IBR requests:
- DWC – IBR
- c/o Maximus Federal Services, Inc.
- PO BOX 138006
- Sacramento, CA 95813-8006
For medical-legal disputes not related to the amount to be paid to the health care provider (such as threshold issues) it is necessary to file a Non-IBR Petition.
If you have other questions about the SBR/IBR process or Non-IBR petitions, feel free to contact us. Our team of experts will be happy to assist you.
Practice IQ: Medical Legal Billing in California
Looking for efficient medical billing services? We are located in Pomona, California, and serve clients all over the Golden State.
Start improving the efficiency of your practice today. Contact us today by telephone (424-433-5704) or email (piqusinfo@practiceiqusa.com), or fill out the contact form to learn more about our services.
