Medicare Compliance & Reimbursement

Tip: An E/M code might be appropriate for cath removal -- here's how to know. Even if catheterizations are commonplace in your office, the coding for catheter insertions and removals has many nuances that can trip you up. Take a look at these expert tips to ensure you're capturing every catheter procedure dollar your physician deserves. Choose From 3 Insertion Codes When your physician performs a catheter insertion, you'll choose from three codes, says Christy Shanley,CPC,billing manager for the University of California, Irvine department of urology. You'll choose the most appropriate code from: • 51701 -- Insertion of non-indwelling bladder catheter (e.g., straight catheterization for residual urine) • 51702 -- Insertion of temporary indwelling bladder catheter; simple (e.g., Foley) • 51703 -- ... complicated (e.g., altered anatomy,fractured catheter/balloon). You should only use 51701 for non-indwelling catheter procedures. "Simple" catheter insertion,drainage, and immediate catheter withdrawal fall into this category, Shanley says. However, if the physician [...]