Cardiology Coding Alert

Question: A representative advised us that we could be billing for remote follow-up every 91 days even if the patient comes to the office and has an iterative device check. Is this accurate?Codify MemberAnswer: Within a 90-day service period, you may report both:An in-person programming evaluation (93279-93281, Programming device evaluation [in person] with iterative adjustment ...) A telephone check (93293, Transtelephonic rhythm strip pacemaker evaluation[s] ... up to 90 days).CPT® guidelines also state that "Programming device evaluations and remote interrogation device evaluations may both be reported during the remote interrogation device evaluation period." However, You may not report an in-person interrogation code (such as 93288, Interrogation device evaluation [in person] ...) within the same 90-day service period as you bill a remote interrogation code (such as 93294, Interrogation device evaluation[s] [remote], up to 90 days ...). Example 1: A patient has a single-lead pacemaker. The pacemaker is evaluated over the [...]