Anesthesia Coding Alert
Modifiers:
Considering Modifier 23? Check These 3 Areas Before Appending Your Codes
Knowing enough details about procedure, location can give you the green light.The time of ... Read more
Considering Modifier 23? Check These 3 Areas Before Appending Your Codes
Knowing enough details about procedure, location can give you the green light.The time of ... Read more
News Brief:
2011 Conversion Factor Expected to Wreak Havoc on Bottom Lines
CF and ACF numbers look grim unless fix occurs.Conversion factor news for 2011 is still so... Read more
2011 Conversion Factor Expected to Wreak Havoc on Bottom Lines
CF and ACF numbers look grim unless fix occurs.Conversion factor news for 2011 is still so... Read more
Clarification:
CCI Edits Apply to Single MD During Procedure
PM/Anesthesia teams aren't affected by bundles.The latest edits from the Correct Coding In... Read more
CCI Edits Apply to Single MD During Procedure
PM/Anesthesia teams aren't affected by bundles.The latest edits from the Correct Coding In... Read more
Documentation:
Watch Out: Nurse's History Note Might Be Audit Bait
The physician must indicate that he or she reviewed any nurse's notes.Caution: Don't let y... Read more
Watch Out: Nurse's History Note Might Be Audit Bait
The physician must indicate that he or she reviewed any nurse's notes.Caution: Don't let y... Read more
Reader Questions:
Nasogastric Tube Rarely Counts as Separate Service
Question: Can we bill for nasogastric tube placement along with anesthesia during the surg... Read more
Nasogastric Tube Rarely Counts as Separate Service
Question: Can we bill for nasogastric tube placement along with anesthesia during the surg... Read more
Reader Questions:
96372 With 62310 or 62311? Know the Service First
Question: A patient visited our office for therapeutic injections of Toradol and Kenalog. ... Read more
96372 With 62310 or 62311? Know the Service First
Question: A patient visited our office for therapeutic injections of Toradol and Kenalog. ... Read more
Reader Questions:
20552, 20553 Equal Paraspinal Muscle TPI
Question: My understanding is that the paraspinal muscle is a group of individual muscles ... Read more
20552, 20553 Equal Paraspinal Muscle TPI
Question: My understanding is that the paraspinal muscle is a group of individual muscles ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Clearly Document CVP, PAC Catheters
Question: Our anesthesiologist wrote, "Seldinger technique left IJ 1st attempt" and then "... Read more
Clearly Document CVP, PAC Catheters
Question: Our anesthesiologist wrote, "Seldinger technique left IJ 1st attempt" and then "... Read more
Reader Questions:
Choose 00160 for Nosebleed Crosswalk
Question: Our anesthesiologist provided general anesthesia during a morning surgery. Later... Read more
Choose 00160 for Nosebleed Crosswalk
Question: Our anesthesiologist provided general anesthesia during a morning surgery. Later... Read more
Reader Questions:
Separate Puncture, Chemo Work Means Separate Codes
Question: The anesthesiologist worked with the oncologist on a case involving a lumbar pun... Read more
Separate Puncture, Chemo Work Means Separate Codes
Question: The anesthesiologist worked with the oncologist on a case involving a lumbar pun... Read more
Reader Questions:
00918 Isn't Automatic Cysto-With-Litho Code
Question: How should I code for anesthesia during a cystourethroscopy with lithotripsy f... Read more
00918 Isn't Automatic Cysto-With-Litho Code
Question: How should I code for anesthesia during a cystourethroscopy with lithotripsy f... Read more
You Be the Coder:
01965 Versus 00940 for Spontaneous Abortion
Question: Our provider documented that he performed a D&C for an incomplete abortion. ... Read more
01965 Versus 00940 for Spontaneous Abortion
Question: Our provider documented that he performed a D&C for an incomplete abortion. ... Read more
Standby:
Yes, 99360 Can Be Payable -- If You Follow the Rules
Check documentation of 4 areas before submitting claims. CPT's E/M section includes only ... Read more
Yes, 99360 Can Be Payable -- If You Follow the Rules
Check documentation of 4 areas before submitting claims. CPT's E/M section includes only ... Read more
Pain Management:
Follow These FAQs to the Best Diagnosis for PM Patients
Tip: Don't limit yourself to just one ICD-9 code.If you don't know what differentiates an ... Read more
Follow These FAQs to the Best Diagnosis for PM Patients
Tip: Don't limit yourself to just one ICD-9 code.If you don't know what differentiates an ... Read more
Billing:
Don't Let Patients' Financial Hardship Become Yours
Discounts and write-offs are options, if you follow these guidelines.Realizing a patient m... Read more
Don't Let Patients' Financial Hardship Become Yours
Discounts and write-offs are options, if you follow these guidelines.Realizing a patient m... Read more
Reader questions:
Use 33212-33213 for Pacemaker Battery Change
Question: Which CPT Codes and ICD-9 codes apply to changing a pacemaker battery? Washi... Read more
Use 33212-33213 for Pacemaker Battery Change
Question: Which CPT Codes and ICD-9 codes apply to changing a pacemaker battery? Washi... Read more
Reader questions:
64680 Covers Splanchnic Block
Question: Our pain management specialist administered a neurolytic celiac plexus block and... Read more
64680 Covers Splanchnic Block
Question: Our pain management specialist administered a neurolytic celiac plexus block and... Read more
Reader questions:
J3490: Know Whether Separate Sodium Bicarbonate Is OK
Question: Our physician often uses sodium bicarbonate when performing a transforaminal or ... Read more
J3490: Know Whether Separate Sodium Bicarbonate Is OK
Question: Our physician often uses sodium bicarbonate when performing a transforaminal or ... Read more
Reader questions:
Modifiers 53, 73, or 74 Mean Failed Procedure
Question: Can we code for failed attempts at line placement? If so, what documentation do ... Read more
Modifiers 53, 73, or 74 Mean Failed Procedure
Question: Can we code for failed attempts at line placement? If so, what documentation do ... Read more
Reader questions:
Check 62273 for Post-Spinal Headache -- Sometimes
Question: How should I code an anesthesia consultation for post-spinal headache?Mississipp... Read more
Check 62273 for Post-Spinal Headache -- Sometimes
Question: How should I code an anesthesia consultation for post-spinal headache?Mississipp... Read more
Reader questions:
00400 Could Be Best Bet for Chest Wall Mass Excision
Question: What code should I report for excision of arteriovascular malformation in the ch... Read more
00400 Could Be Best Bet for Chest Wall Mass Excision
Question: What code should I report for excision of arteriovascular malformation in the ch... Read more
Reader questions:
Beware Tacking on Additional Patient Charges
Question: Can we charge a processing fee or a "statement" fee to past due patients when we... Read more
Beware Tacking on Additional Patient Charges
Question: Can we charge a processing fee or a "statement" fee to past due patients when we... Read more
Reader questions:
Rely on 01210 as Alternative Code for Hip ORIF
Question: The anesthesia record documents a fractured hip with an ORIF (open reduction int... Read more
Rely on 01210 as Alternative Code for Hip ORIF
Question: The anesthesia record documents a fractured hip with an ORIF (open reduction int... Read more
You Be the Coder:
36555 Group or 93503 for Introducer-Only Coding?
Question: Our physician inserted an introducer, but not the line. How should I code the pr... Read more
36555 Group or 93503 for Introducer-Only Coding?
Question: Our physician inserted an introducer, but not the line. How should I code the pr... Read more
Cardiac Anesthesia:
93505 Goes With Heart Procedures -- But Not Guaranteed Payment
Remember one service you can't report with PA catheters.If your anesthesiologist participa... Read more
93505 Goes With Heart Procedures -- But Not Guaranteed Payment
Remember one service you can't report with PA catheters.If your anesthesiologist participa... Read more
ICD-10:
Start Prepping Now for ICD-10 With 3 Mythbusters
You'll need to implement the new 5010 claim form first to be ready for ICD-10.While the fa... Read more
Start Prepping Now for ICD-10 With 3 Mythbusters
You'll need to implement the new 5010 claim form first to be ready for ICD-10.While the fa... Read more
Reader Questions:
Depth Dictates Psoas I&D Code
Question: What code would we use for a CT-guided irrigation and drainage of a psoas muscle... Read more
Depth Dictates Psoas I&D Code
Question: What code would we use for a CT-guided irrigation and drainage of a psoas muscle... Read more
Reader Questions:
List Both Modifiers for Resident Cases
Question: What modifiers do we add to the claim when a provider is involved in two concurr... Read more
List Both Modifiers for Resident Cases
Question: What modifiers do we add to the claim when a provider is involved in two concurr... Read more
Reader Questions:
Choose From Four Methods for Labor Epidural
Question: I always wonder if I'm coding epidurals during delivery correctly. Is there a ca... Read more
Choose From Four Methods for Labor Epidural
Question: I always wonder if I'm coding epidurals during delivery correctly. Is there a ca... Read more
Reader Questions:
Count Muscles for Iliopsoas Injection Code
Question: What CPT code applies to a steroid injection of the iliopsoas to help treat il... Read more
Count Muscles for Iliopsoas Injection Code
Question: What CPT code applies to a steroid injection of the iliopsoas to help treat il... Read more
Reader Questions:
'Diagnostic' and 'Therapeutic' Defined
Question: Can you explain the difference between "diagnostic" and "therapeutic" injections... Read more
'Diagnostic' and 'Therapeutic' Defined
Question: Can you explain the difference between "diagnostic" and "therapeutic" injections... Read more
Reader Questions:
Resolve Secondary Payer Issues With Conversations
Question: Our doctor performed surgery on a patient 11 months ago. We just learned that th... Read more
Resolve Secondary Payer Issues With Conversations
Question: Our doctor performed surgery on a patient 11 months ago. We just learned that th... Read more
Reader Questions:
Check Your Contracts for Collections Advice
Question: We wanted to collect a $100 deposit for a self-pay patient prior to surgery, but... Read more
Check Your Contracts for Collections Advice
Question: We wanted to collect a $100 deposit for a self-pay patient prior to surgery, but... Read more
Reader Questions:
Check CS Versus MAC Before Coding
Question: We bill for a small anesthesia group that includes two CRNAs. The providers say ... Read more
Check CS Versus MAC Before Coding
Question: We bill for a small anesthesia group that includes two CRNAs. The providers say ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Catch Up on Incomplete Claims
Question: Our practice has a few claims that have missing or incorrect information. I'm no... Read more
Catch Up on Incomplete Claims
Question: Our practice has a few claims that have missing or incorrect information. I'm no... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Check All Options for 37200 Crosswalk
Question: Our anesthesiologist worked with an interventional radiologist during a transjug... Read more
Check All Options for 37200 Crosswalk
Question: Our anesthesiologist worked with an interventional radiologist during a transjug... Read more
Medical Direction:
Clarify "Present and Immediately Available" Up Front
Establish guidelines to help your medical direction claims."Physically present and availab... Read more
Clarify "Present and Immediately Available" Up Front
Establish guidelines to help your medical direction claims."Physically present and availab... Read more
Criteria:
Follow the Rules for Coding Medical Direction
Be sure your physicians meet all 7 guidelines.The first guideline for medical direction is... Read more
Follow the Rules for Coding Medical Direction
Be sure your physicians meet all 7 guidelines.The first guideline for medical direction is... Read more
Line Placement:
CVP Catheter Role Points You to Correct Codes
Verify uses before filing that next claim -- or face denials.Line placements can be s... Read more
CVP Catheter Role Points You to Correct Codes
Verify uses before filing that next claim -- or face denials.Line placements can be s... Read more
Criteria:
Follow the Rules for Coding Medical Direction
Be sure your physicians meet all 7 guidelines.The first guideline for medical direction is... Read more
Follow the Rules for Coding Medical Direction
Be sure your physicians meet all 7 guidelines.The first guideline for medical direction is... Read more
Pain Management:
Levels Outweigh Frequency When Coding Interlaminar Epidural Injections
Tip: Yes, you can code separately for fluoro guidance. Neurologists and pain managemen... Read more
Levels Outweigh Frequency When Coding Interlaminar Epidural Injections
Tip: Yes, you can code separately for fluoro guidance. Neurologists and pain managemen... Read more
Reader Questions:
Mark 00104 for Electroconvulsive Therapy
Question: How should I code anesthetic during electroconvulsive therapy? New Jersey Subscr... Read more
Mark 00104 for Electroconvulsive Therapy
Question: How should I code anesthetic during electroconvulsive therapy? New Jersey Subscr... Read more
Reader Questions:
Stick With Correct Code, Even if Non-covered
Question: Our Medicaid carrier included codes 64470-64476 on the 2009 physician fee sche... Read more
Stick With Correct Code, Even if Non-covered
Question: Our Medicaid carrier included codes 64470-64476 on the 2009 physician fee sche... Read more
Reader Questions:
Anesthesiologist With 2 Cases
Question: The anesthesiologist supervised with a CRNA in one surgery room, then left to pe... Read more
Anesthesiologist With 2 Cases
Question: The anesthesiologist supervised with a CRNA in one surgery room, then left to pe... Read more
Reader Questions:
E/M Included Unless Anesthesia Not Provided
Question: When I was trained in anesthesia I was told to charge an H&P as 99202-25 alo... Read more
E/M Included Unless Anesthesia Not Provided
Question: When I was trained in anesthesia I was told to charge an H&P as 99202-25 alo... Read more
Reader Questions:
Watch Bilaterals and Limits on 20550 With 64450
Question: Medicare denies our claims with codes CPT 20550 and 64450, stating that the num... Read more
Watch Bilaterals and Limits on 20550 With 64450
Question: Medicare denies our claims with codes CPT 20550 and 64450, stating that the num... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Check Sedation for Injection Supervision
Question: An ASC staff nurse administered anesthesia for a 47-yearold patient's epidural s... Read more
Check Sedation for Injection Supervision
Question: An ASC staff nurse administered anesthesia for a 47-yearold patient's epidural s... Read more
Burn Care:
Gear Up Your Math Skills to Correctly Code Anesthesia for Burns
Don't miss how to count time for +01953. Coding for anesthesia during burn excisio... Read more
Gear Up Your Math Skills to Correctly Code Anesthesia for Burns
Don't miss how to count time for +01953. Coding for anesthesia during burn excisio... Read more
Documentation:
3 Tips Help You Make the Most of Incomplete Medical Direction
Look before you leap into using these tricky modifiersWhen an anesthesia case involving in... Read more
3 Tips Help You Make the Most of Incomplete Medical Direction
Look before you leap into using these tricky modifiersWhen an anesthesia case involving in... Read more
PQRI:
Don't Scrap PQRI If Some of Your Doctors Don't Participate
Plus: Get ready for incentive pay in September, October, CMS says.If all of your physician... Read more
Don't Scrap PQRI If Some of Your Doctors Don't Participate
Plus: Get ready for incentive pay in September, October, CMS says.If all of your physician... Read more
Reader Questions:
Verify Payer Before Adding +99100
Question: We use CRNAs in our ambulatory surgery center to provide anesthesia during upper... Read more
Verify Payer Before Adding +99100
Question: We use CRNAs in our ambulatory surgery center to provide anesthesia during upper... Read more
Reader Questions:
RF Mode Determines Lesioning Code
Question: How do we code radiofrequency lesioning of the greater occipital nerve?New York ... Read more
RF Mode Determines Lesioning Code
Question: How do we code radiofrequency lesioning of the greater occipital nerve?New York ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Check Approach for Fistula Repair
Question: What are the correct surgical and anesthesia code for repair of a recto-vulvar f... Read more
Check Approach for Fistula Repair
Question: What are the correct surgical and anesthesia code for repair of a recto-vulvar f... Read more
Reader Questions:
Two Options for Adding Interrupted Time
Question: A surgeon dealt with an emergent case soon after starting a procedure with our a... Read more
Two Options for Adding Interrupted Time
Question: A surgeon dealt with an emergent case soon after starting a procedure with our a... Read more
Reader Questions:
Anatomy Offers Obturator Block Clues
Question: What codes should we submit for an obturator nerve block and obturator muscle in... Read more
Anatomy Offers Obturator Block Clues
Question: What codes should we submit for an obturator nerve block and obturator muscle in... Read more
Reader Questions:
Including LT and RT Can Help Cataract Claims
Question: Should I report modifiers LT and/or RT when coding anesthesia for cataract surge... Read more
Including LT and RT Can Help Cataract Claims
Question: Should I report modifiers LT and/or RT when coding anesthesia for cataract surge... Read more
Reader Questions:
Get the Scoop on Billing Before Credentialing
Question: Our practice has a new physician coming on board to replace a retiring doctor. W... Read more
Get the Scoop on Billing Before Credentialing
Question: Our practice has a new physician coming on board to replace a retiring doctor. W... Read more
Reader Questions:
Coding for Standby CRNA Service
Question: An obstetrician called one of our CRNAs for standby service during a twin delive... Read more
Coding for Standby CRNA Service
Question: An obstetrician called one of our CRNAs for standby service during a twin delive... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Learn What Merits 00670 Over 00630
Question: One of our providers uses 00630 for a lumbar microdiscectomy. Can the procedure ... Read more
Learn What Merits 00670 Over 00630
Question: One of our providers uses 00630 for a lumbar microdiscectomy. Can the procedure ... Read more
CCI 16.2:
New Edits Bundle Paravertebral Facets With All Anesthesia, Some Nerve Procedures
Checkpoint: Don't assume separate coding for J0670 anymore, either.The latest Correct Codi... Read more
New Edits Bundle Paravertebral Facets With All Anesthesia, Some Nerve Procedures
Checkpoint: Don't assume separate coding for J0670 anymore, either.The latest Correct Codi... Read more
Code Changes:
Category III codes introduce welcome transforaminal changes
Bonus: Prepare for neonate hypothermia options in Jan. 2011.July brings announcements rega... Read more
Category III codes introduce welcome transforaminal changes
Bonus: Prepare for neonate hypothermia options in Jan. 2011.July brings announcements rega... Read more
QC Codes:
Boost Your Bottom Line With Qualifying Circumstances Codes
Tip: Medicare doesn't reimburse, but other payers still might.Traditional Medicare plans n... Read more
Boost Your Bottom Line With Qualifying Circumstances Codes
Tip: Medicare doesn't reimburse, but other payers still might.Traditional Medicare plans n... Read more
Reader Questions:
Work, Not Location, Defines Anesthesia End Time
Question: I've seen several descriptions of anesthesia end time, but still am not clear on... Read more
Work, Not Location, Defines Anesthesia End Time
Question: I've seen several descriptions of anesthesia end time, but still am not clear on... Read more
Reader Questions:
Follow Payer Preference for Multi 64640
Question: How do we correctly bill multiple radiofrequency ablations of the lumbosacral la... Read more
Follow Payer Preference for Multi 64640
Question: How do we correctly bill multiple radiofrequency ablations of the lumbosacral la... Read more
Reader Questions:
Look to 64400 for Mandibular Nerve Block
Question: Our physician administered a nerve block to the mandibular nerve. Which nerve in... Read more
Look to 64400 for Mandibular Nerve Block
Question: Our physician administered a nerve block to the mandibular nerve. Which nerve in... Read more
Reader Questions:
Contract Doesn't Negate Standby Service
Question: The obstetrician requested that our anesthesiologist be on standby during the de... Read more
Contract Doesn't Negate Standby Service
Question: The obstetrician requested that our anesthesiologist be on standby during the de... Read more
Reader Questions:
No Pre-Exam? Still File Claim
Question: A patient was admitted through the Emergency Department and went immediately to ... Read more
No Pre-Exam? Still File Claim
Question: A patient was admitted through the Emergency Department and went immediately to ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Watch Delivery Status for Final Diagnosis Digit
Question: A patient delivered via cesarean section following a previous c-section. Our pro... Read more
Watch Delivery Status for Final Diagnosis Digit
Question: A patient delivered via cesarean section following a previous c-section. Our pro... Read more
Reader Questions:
Complete Details Help Justify CV Catheter
Question: The anesthesiologist placed a central venous catheter during a procedure. What d... Read more
Complete Details Help Justify CV Catheter
Question: The anesthesiologist placed a central venous catheter during a procedure. What d... Read more
Reader Questions:
2 Hernias = 1 Code? Not So Fast
Question: What is the correct anesthesia code for two laparoscopic repairs of incisional h... Read more
2 Hernias = 1 Code? Not So Fast
Question: What is the correct anesthesia code for two laparoscopic repairs of incisional h... Read more
Reader Questions:
Play It Safe With Flat Fee Services Time Units
Question: I have doubts regarding flat fee calculation. My client calculates time using 11... Read more
Play It Safe With Flat Fee Services Time Units
Question: I have doubts regarding flat fee calculation. My client calculates time using 11... Read more
You be the coder:
Best choice for atlantoaxial arthrogram
Question: What code should we submit for atlantoaxial arthrogram? Oregon Subscriber Answer... Read more
Best choice for atlantoaxial arthrogram
Question: What code should we submit for atlantoaxial arthrogram? Oregon Subscriber Answer... Read more
Coding Hot Topic:
Achieve EGD Claims Success With These 5 Tips
Payer policies differ on upper GI and colonoscopy screening, so check with yours first.Rep... Read more
Achieve EGD Claims Success With These 5 Tips
Payer policies differ on upper GI and colonoscopy screening, so check with yours first.Rep... Read more
Anesthesia During Diagnostics:
Narrow Your TEE Code Options By Reviewing the Written Report
Beware: Most payers won't reimburse for monitoring with CPT 93318 .Transesophageal echocar... Read more
Narrow Your TEE Code Options By Reviewing the Written Report
Beware: Most payers won't reimburse for monitoring with CPT 93318 .Transesophageal echocar... Read more
Pain Management Corner:
Take Note of United HealthCare's Stance on Ablative Spinal Pain
Unfortunately, pulse radiofrequency still doesn't make the grade.If your pain management p... Read more
Take Note of United HealthCare's Stance on Ablative Spinal Pain
Unfortunately, pulse radiofrequency still doesn't make the grade.If your pain management p... Read more
Reader Questions:
Subclavian Vein Catheter Counts as 36556
Question: One of my doctors is asking about the proper code to use for placement of a cent... Read more
Subclavian Vein Catheter Counts as 36556
Question: One of my doctors is asking about the proper code to use for placement of a cent... Read more
Reader Questions:
Use 01999 for MAC with Stress Test
Question: We had a patient with mental retardation who underwent a pharmacologically induc... Read more
Use 01999 for MAC with Stress Test
Question: We had a patient with mental retardation who underwent a pharmacologically induc... Read more
Reader Questions:
Unlisted 58999 Crosswalks to 00942
Question: An anesthesiologist in our practice provided services during an excision of vagi... Read more
Unlisted 58999 Crosswalks to 00942
Question: An anesthesiologist in our practice provided services during an excision of vagi... Read more
Reader Questions:
Anesthesiologist Can't Charge for Blood Spinning
Question: We have an anesthesiologist who does what he calls a blood spinning procedure du... Read more
Anesthesiologist Can't Charge for Blood Spinning
Question: We have an anesthesiologist who does what he calls a blood spinning procedure du... Read more
Reader Questions:
Pre-Op Lumbar Epidural is Payable
Question: I have a case where my anesthesiologist did a pre-operative lumbar epidural befo... Read more
Pre-Op Lumbar Epidural is Payable
Question: I have a case where my anesthesiologist did a pre-operative lumbar epidural befo... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Severe Asthma Control Depends on Who Administered Services
Question: I'm looking at notes from my anesthesiologist for an encounter with a patient wi... Read more
Severe Asthma Control Depends on Who Administered Services
Question: I'm looking at notes from my anesthesiologist for an encounter with a patient wi... Read more
Clear 1 Line for Proper Swan-Ganz Coding
Reporting one placement will prevent incorrect double billing of 93503. The global anesth... Read more
Reporting one placement will prevent incorrect double billing of 93503. The global anesth... Read more
CCI 16.1 Update:
Fluoroscopic Guidance Leads Your Q2 Update List
Also, watch for a swapped modifier when reporting a GON block. Pain management coders won... Read more
Fluoroscopic Guidance Leads Your Q2 Update List
Also, watch for a swapped modifier when reporting a GON block. Pain management coders won... Read more
Employ Modifier 53 For Discontinued Anesthesia Services
Pain management specialties might make use of modifier 52 as well. The situation is bo... Read more
Pain management specialties might make use of modifier 52 as well. The situation is bo... Read more
Reader Questions:
Look for Medical Necessity for Lumbar Epidural
Question: My anesthesiologist recently inserted a pre-operative lumbar epidural catheter ... Read more
Look for Medical Necessity for Lumbar Epidural
Question: My anesthesiologist recently inserted a pre-operative lumbar epidural catheter ... Read more
Reader Questions:
No Way Around Carrier's Standby Policy
Question: One of our anesthesiologists monitored a patient's vital signs during excision ... Read more
No Way Around Carrier's Standby Policy
Question: One of our anesthesiologists monitored a patient's vital signs during excision ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Documentation Is Key to Separate Injections
Question: My anesthesiologist performed two postprocedure injections on a patient. Can I ... Read more
Documentation Is Key to Separate Injections
Question: My anesthesiologist performed two postprocedure injections on a patient. Can I ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Stay Away From 01996 for Single-shot Morphine
Question: Our anesthesiologist provided an epidural to an OB patient for cesarean section... Read more
Stay Away From 01996 for Single-shot Morphine
Question: Our anesthesiologist provided an epidural to an OB patient for cesarean section... Read more
Reader Questions:
Occipital Lipoma Excision Points to 00300
Question: One of our anesthesiologists recently provided services during an excision of a... Read more
Occipital Lipoma Excision Points to 00300
Question: One of our anesthesiologists recently provided services during an excision of a... Read more
Reader Questions:
Certification Usually Required for 93312
Question: I've heard different interpretations regarding certification guidelines for an ... Read more
Certification Usually Required for 93312
Question: I've heard different interpretations regarding certification guidelines for an ... Read more
Reader Questions:
2 Anesthetic Blocks Need Modifier 59
Question: Our anesthesiologist performed a suprascapular block injection while the surgeo... Read more
2 Anesthetic Blocks Need Modifier 59
Question: Our anesthesiologist performed a suprascapular block injection while the surgeo... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Find the Missing EGD Reimbursement Link
Question: Our anesthesiologist provided anesthesia during an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (... Read more
Find the Missing EGD Reimbursement Link
Question: Our anesthesiologist provided anesthesia during an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (... Read more
Follow 3 Tips for Guaranteed Post-Op Brachial Plexus Success
Knowing when you need to use modifier 59 is key to 64416 payment. Brachial plexus block s... Read more
Knowing when you need to use modifier 59 is key to 64416 payment. Brachial plexus block s... Read more
Unlock Pay With Anesthesia V Code Advice
Patient history is one element of proper Dx coding. Many coders hesitate to report V code... Read more
Patient history is one element of proper Dx coding. Many coders hesitate to report V code... Read more
Mind Your P Modifiers or Leave Money on the Table
Have your documentation ready for reporting level P4 and higher. Physical status modifier... Read more
Have your documentation ready for reporting level P4 and higher. Physical status modifier... Read more
Reader Questions:
Can You Split Time with CRNA?
Question: My anesthesiologist started a case at 12:13 p.m. The certified registered nurse... Read more
Can You Split Time with CRNA?
Question: My anesthesiologist started a case at 12:13 p.m. The certified registered nurse... Read more
Reader Questions:
No Getting By Extreme Age Payment
Question: I understand that 99100 should be used for extreme age either under 1 year or o... Read more
No Getting By Extreme Age Payment
Question: I understand that 99100 should be used for extreme age either under 1 year or o... Read more
Reader Questions:
Find the Fee for Bilateral 27096
Question: We had a patient who was given bilateral sacroiliac joint injections. Our pain ... Read more
Find the Fee for Bilateral 27096
Question: We had a patient who was given bilateral sacroiliac joint injections. Our pain ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Get Pre-Authorization for Unlisted Procedures
Question: Our pain management specialist used pulse radiofrequency to treat a patient wit... Read more
Get Pre-Authorization for Unlisted Procedures
Question: Our pain management specialist used pulse radiofrequency to treat a patient wit... Read more
Reader Questions:
Be Sure +99140 Really Is An Emergency
Question: A patient came to our emergency department with severe abdominal pain. The atte... Read more
Be Sure +99140 Really Is An Emergency
Question: A patient came to our emergency department with severe abdominal pain. The atte... Read more
Reader Questions:
Vascular Case Calls for Separate CVP Line Billing
Question: My anesthesiologist recently placed a nontunneled central venous pressure (CVP)... Read more
Vascular Case Calls for Separate CVP Line Billing
Question: My anesthesiologist recently placed a nontunneled central venous pressure (CVP)... Read more
Reader Questions:
Dx Matters for Rheumatic Aortic Stenosis
Question: Our anesthesiologist provided services for a balloon valvuloplasty to treat ste... Read more
Dx Matters for Rheumatic Aortic Stenosis
Question: Our anesthesiologist provided services for a balloon valvuloplasty to treat ste... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Adjust Your Coding for Multi-Day Obstetric Patient Service
Question: One of our anesthesiologists was in attendance for an expectant mother who was ... Read more
Adjust Your Coding for Multi-Day Obstetric Patient Service
Question: One of our anesthesiologists was in attendance for an expectant mother who was ... Read more
Warm Up to Measure 193 for PQRI Credit
If your anesthesiologist's service can meet 3 criteria, you could get a bonus. When your ... Read more
If your anesthesiologist's service can meet 3 criteria, you could get a bonus. When your ... Read more
Measures 193 & 76 Defined:
Measures 193 & 76 Defined:
CMS defines these measures as follows: Measure 193: Perioperative Temperature Management: ... Read more
Measures 193 & 76 Defined:
CMS defines these measures as follows: Measure 193: Perioperative Temperature Management: ... Read more
Quick Quiz:
Think You Understand the New Consult Rules? Find Out Fast
Test your 2010 consultation coding understanding with these questions. Consultation codin... Read more
Think You Understand the New Consult Rules? Find Out Fast
Test your 2010 consultation coding understanding with these questions. Consultation codin... Read more
Determine the Toxin to Solve Your Chemodenervation Coding Woes
You'll need more than 1 code to capture drug and injection reimbursement. If you've notic... Read more
You'll need more than 1 code to capture drug and injection reimbursement. If you've notic... Read more
Quick Quiz Answers:
Think You Understand the New Consult Rules? Find Out Fast
Check your 2010 consultation coding savvy. Find out if you're set to properly code your p... Read more
Think You Understand the New Consult Rules? Find Out Fast
Check your 2010 consultation coding savvy. Find out if you're set to properly code your p... Read more
Reader Questions:
Documentation, Time Factors in A-Line Insertion
Question: My anesthesiologist inserted an arterial line in pre-op holding in preparation ... Read more
Documentation, Time Factors in A-Line Insertion
Question: My anesthesiologist inserted an arterial line in pre-op holding in preparation ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Never Guess at a Diagnosis
Question: My pain management specialist had a patient present with severe, chronic pain i... Read more
Never Guess at a Diagnosis
Question: My pain management specialist had a patient present with severe, chronic pain i... Read more
Reader Questions:
Availability is Key to Coding Standby
Question: One of our anesthesiologists was requested to be on standby for a cardiologist ... Read more
Availability is Key to Coding Standby
Question: One of our anesthesiologists was requested to be on standby for a cardiologist ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Don't Let Modifier 53 Stop Proper Coding
Question: A pain management physician was performing a celiac plexus injection procedure ... Read more
Don't Let Modifier 53 Stop Proper Coding
Question: A pain management physician was performing a celiac plexus injection procedure ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Code Separately for Femoral Nerve Block
Question: My pain management specialist inserted a catheter for a continuous femoral ner... Read more
Code Separately for Femoral Nerve Block
Question: My pain management specialist inserted a catheter for a continuous femoral ner... Read more
Put Your Transforaminal Epidural Denial Worries to Rest With 2 Final Steps
Focus on correct Dx, CCI edits to set your practice on the path to error-free claims. ... Read more
Focus on correct Dx, CCI edits to set your practice on the path to error-free claims. ... Read more
Avoid Modifier 59 Denials With These 3 Tips
Separate sites, modifier indicators hold clues to proper use. When your physician perform... Read more
Separate sites, modifier indicators hold clues to proper use. When your physician perform... Read more
Beef Up Your Diagnosis Know-How for Medical Necessity
Keep these guides in mind to help prove your case. With payers tightening the reins on re... Read more
Keep these guides in mind to help prove your case. With payers tightening the reins on re... Read more
6 Easy Questions to Ask Yourself About Medical Necessity
Let these answers help keep your diagnosis coding on track. When you're trying to get to ... Read more
Let these answers help keep your diagnosis coding on track. When you're trying to get to ... Read more
Reader Question:
T12-L1 and L1-L2 Call for Multiple Codes
Question: The pain management doctor administered facet joint injections at the T11-L2 le... Read more
T12-L1 and L1-L2 Call for Multiple Codes
Question: The pain management doctor administered facet joint injections at the T11-L2 le... Read more
Reader Question:
Clear Up Diagnosis for Greater Occipital Nerve Block
Question: My pain management provider performed a GON block for a patient with severe, pe... Read more
Clear Up Diagnosis for Greater Occipital Nerve Block
Question: My pain management provider performed a GON block for a patient with severe, pe... Read more
Reader Question:
Avoid Bilateral Billing Assumptions
Question: My physician performed a bilateral kyphoplasty, and I billed 22523 with modifie... Read more
Avoid Bilateral Billing Assumptions
Question: My physician performed a bilateral kyphoplasty, and I billed 22523 with modifie... Read more
Reader Question:
Calculate TBSA When Dealing with Burns
Question: My anesthesiologist administered anesthesia for a burn excision on the leg of a... Read more
Calculate TBSA When Dealing with Burns
Question: My anesthesiologist administered anesthesia for a burn excision on the leg of a... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Coding Radiological Service with Paravertebral Facet
Question: Our pain specialist shot a single-view lumbar x-ray on the same day she adminis... Read more
Coding Radiological Service with Paravertebral Facet
Question: Our pain specialist shot a single-view lumbar x-ray on the same day she adminis... Read more
Forget reporting new paravertebral facet codes with most other procedures
CCI 16.0 introduces many changes, but some might not apply with non-Medicare payers. The ... Read more
CCI 16.0 introduces many changes, but some might not apply with non-Medicare payers. The ... Read more
Prepare for OIG scrutiny of transforaminal epidurals
Verify that you're counting injections and levels correctly to keep claims clean. ... Read more
Verify that you're counting injections and levels correctly to keep claims clean. ... Read more
Did You Know?
Transforaminal injections skyrocket. Physicians administer transforaminal epidural inject... Read more
Transforaminal injections skyrocket. Physicians administer transforaminal epidural inject... Read more
Add easy money to your bottom line with PQRI
2 new anesthesia clusters focus on services your MD handles every day. If your physician ... Read more
2 new anesthesia clusters focus on services your MD handles every day. If your physician ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Suprascapular block equals 64418
Question: A provider performed a suprascapular nerve block with an anesthetic and steroid... Read more
Suprascapular block equals 64418
Question: A provider performed a suprascapular nerve block with an anesthetic and steroid... Read more
Reader Questions:
CRNA can learn to place TEE probe
Question: I know that anesthesiologists must be specially trained to read reports from tr... Read more
CRNA can learn to place TEE probe
Question: I know that anesthesiologists must be specially trained to read reports from tr... Read more
Reader Questions:
Confirm spinal block location for fluoro code
Question: Can I report fluoroscopy in conjunction with a spinal block? If so, how do I c... Read more
Confirm spinal block location for fluoro code
Question: Can I report fluoroscopy in conjunction with a spinal block? If so, how do I c... Read more
Reader Questions:
Fluoro guidance with epi patch is OK
Question: Our physician used fluoroscopic guidance when he administered an epidural blood... Read more
Fluoro guidance with epi patch is OK
Question: Our physician used fluoroscopic guidance when he administered an epidural blood... Read more
Reader Questions:
Check diagnosis behind Swan-Ganz denial
Question: United Healthcare denies our claims for a Swan-Ganz catheter for hemodynamic mo... Read more
Check diagnosis behind Swan-Ganz denial
Question: United Healthcare denies our claims for a Swan-Ganz catheter for hemodynamic mo... Read more
Reader Questions:
Combined epidural doesn't merit 2 codes
Question: Our anesthesiologists sometimes mark our C-section tickets as "combined spinal ... Read more
Combined epidural doesn't merit 2 codes
Question: Our anesthesiologists sometimes mark our C-section tickets as "combined spinal ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Count muscles, not injections, with TPI
Question: When the physician injects trigger points in bilateral muscles, is each muscle ... Read more
Count muscles, not injections, with TPI
Question: When the physician injects trigger points in bilateral muscles, is each muscle ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Coding Botox for myofascial pain syndrome
Question: Our physician has started giving Botox injections for myofascial pain syndrome.... Read more
Coding Botox for myofascial pain syndrome
Question: Our physician has started giving Botox injections for myofascial pain syndrome.... Read more