Cardiology Coding Alert

As of Oct. 1, 2000, two new codes that affect cardiology practices became effective. The Healthcare Financing Administration has added a new HCPCS code Q0188 (supply of injectable contrast material for use in echocardiography, per study) that now may be billed for the use of contrast agents, such as Optison, used during echocardiography (see cover story). Meanwhile, a new ICD-9 V code, V77.91 (screening for lipid disorders), may also be used to allow providers to define specifically that a cholesterol screening has been ordered. As always, you should check with your carrier to determine if using the new code means the screening will be covered.