Anesthesia Coding Alert

Question: An anesthesiologist in our group sometimes performs a procedure that a surgeon usually performs. One will administer monitored anesthesia care (MAC), and another may give a follow-up injection during the same case. One is acting as the anesthesiologist and the other as the surgeon during the procedure, but insurance will only pay for one. How can we get paid for both doctors work?

Colorado Subscriber

Answer: Insurance carriers, unfortunately, dont think it merits additional reimbursement for the second physicians involvement. Include both physicians work on the claim, but realize you are unlikely to get paid for both.