Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Question: A gastroenterologist sees a new patient complaining of frequent belching and heartburn. She performs a level-two E/M service, and subsequently, a diagnostic EGD. During the EGD, she also inserts a Bravo capsule and performs a reflux test. The test results came back negative for both cancer and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Can I report the EGD and Bravo insertion separately?New Mexico SubscriberAnswer: Yes. You should be able to code the EGD and Bravo capsule insertion using 43235 (Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy including esophagus, stomach, and either the duodenum and/or jejunum as appropriate; diagnostic,with or without collection of specimen[s] by brushing or washing [separate procedure]), and 91035 (Esophagus, gastroesophageal reflux test; with mucosal attached telemetry pH electrode placement, recording, analysis and interpretation), respectively.Here's what you should report for the rest of your claim: 99202 -- Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of a new patient, which requires these [...]