ED Coding and Reimbursement Alert

Question: Can we report both IV access and infusion in the same ED encounter, or is that unbundling?


Florida Subscriber

Answer:  According to the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) edits, you shouldn't report 36000 (Introduction of needle or intracatheter, vein) with an infusion code, such as 90780 (Intravenous infusion for therapy/diagnosis, administered by a physician or under direct supervision of a physician; up to one hour). You should only bill one code--typically the infusion code.