Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert
Payment Update:
CMS Proposes Non-Coverage of Percutaneous Image-guided Lumbar Decompression
Memo doesn’t find support for reimbursement. In mid-October, CMS released... Read more
CMS Proposes Non-Coverage of Percutaneous Image-guided Lumbar Decompression
Memo doesn’t find support for reimbursement. In mid-October, CMS released... Read more
Modifier 25:
Check Out the Top 'Do' and 'Don't' for Successful Modifier 25 Reporting
The key: Knowing that ‘separate’ is justified. Appending modifiers to you... Read more
Check Out the Top 'Do' and 'Don't' for Successful Modifier 25 Reporting
The key: Knowing that ‘separate’ is justified. Appending modifiers to you... Read more
ICD-10:
Underlying Condition Will Be Key to Choosing Pathological Fracture Diagnosis
This common diagnosis supporting vertebroplasty will become more inclusive. When your... Read more
Underlying Condition Will Be Key to Choosing Pathological Fracture Diagnosis
This common diagnosis supporting vertebroplasty will become more inclusive. When your... Read more
Reader Question:
Only Code Injection if No Manipulation Is Done
Question: A patient who was treated for a closed pelvic ring/pubic ramus fracture visite... Read more
Only Code Injection if No Manipulation Is Done
Question: A patient who was treated for a closed pelvic ring/pubic ramus fracture visite... Read more
Reader Question:
Check Payer Preference for Hardware Injection Code
Question: Is there an actual procedure code for a hardware injection? I bill 64999 and s... Read more
Check Payer Preference for Hardware Injection Code
Question: Is there an actual procedure code for a hardware injection? I bill 64999 and s... Read more
Reader Question:
Think Paravertebral for Atlanto-Occipital or Atlanto-Axial Joint
Question: Our pain management specialist performed the following procedures: ... Read more
Think Paravertebral for Atlanto-Occipital or Atlanto-Axial Joint
Question: Our pain management specialist performed the following procedures: ... Read more
Reader Question:
Report 93892 for Embolus Detection Service
Question: Our neurologist is about to start providing embolus detection services. What&r... Read more
Report 93892 for Embolus Detection Service
Question: Our neurologist is about to start providing embolus detection services. What&r... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Transforaminal During Same Session as Interlaminar ESI
Question: Our physician wants to bill for an aborted interlaminar epidural steroid injec... Read more
Transforaminal During Same Session as Interlaminar ESI
Question: Our physician wants to bill for an aborted interlaminar epidural steroid injec... Read more
CPT® 2014:
New E/M Codes Bring Consults Back Into the Picture
Heads up: It could be time to refresh your consultation coding knowledge. New codes f... Read more
New E/M Codes Bring Consults Back Into the Picture
Heads up: It could be time to refresh your consultation coding knowledge. New codes f... Read more
CCI 19.3:
Keep a Check on Edits for E/M Service With Hospital Discharge
Plus: ‘Good news’ with retroactive edits won’t help your bottom line. ... Read more
Keep a Check on Edits for E/M Service With Hospital Discharge
Plus: ‘Good news’ with retroactive edits won’t help your bottom line. ... Read more
Practice Management:
Considering Adding an NPP to Your Practice? Consider These Factors First
Tip: Get familiar with your state laws and NPP scope of practice rules before hiring. ... Read more
Considering Adding an NPP to Your Practice? Consider These Factors First
Tip: Get familiar with your state laws and NPP scope of practice rules before hiring. ... Read more
ICD-10:
You'll Add Multiple Options for Common NCS Diagnoses Under ICD-10
Prepare now for expanded choice related to radiculopathy. Payers might have different... Read more
You'll Add Multiple Options for Common NCS Diagnoses Under ICD-10
Prepare now for expanded choice related to radiculopathy. Payers might have different... Read more
Reader Question:
'Awake' or 'Asleep' Distinguishes 95816 From 95819
Question: The neurologist in our group will only read an EEG when the test is perf... Read more
'Awake' or 'Asleep' Distinguishes 95816 From 95819
Question: The neurologist in our group will only read an EEG when the test is perf... Read more
Reader Question:
Pain Pump Removal Leads to 62365
Question: Our physician removed an implanted pain pump and catheter from a patient... Read more
Pain Pump Removal Leads to 62365
Question: Our physician removed an implanted pain pump and catheter from a patient... Read more
Reader Question:
Understand All Conditions Before Choosing Consultation Diagnosis
Question: Our neurologist saw a patient for consultation at the request of her obstetric... Read more
Understand All Conditions Before Choosing Consultation Diagnosis
Question: Our neurologist saw a patient for consultation at the request of her obstetric... Read more
Reader Question:
62272 Represents Lumbar Drain Placement
Question: Our surgeon placed a lumbar drain and this was left intact for several da... Read more
62272 Represents Lumbar Drain Placement
Question: Our surgeon placed a lumbar drain and this was left intact for several da... Read more
Reader Question:
Striking a Privacy-Identifier Balance
Question: What guidelines should our group follow to protect the privacy of patient info... Read more
Striking a Privacy-Identifier Balance
Question: What guidelines should our group follow to protect the privacy of patient info... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Ins and Outs of Coding Sinus Tarsi Injection
Question: We recently received a denial when we reported a cortisone injection to the si... Read more
Ins and Outs of Coding Sinus Tarsi Injection
Question: We recently received a denial when we reported a cortisone injection to the si... Read more
CPT® Update:
Prepare to Add More Chemodenervation Code Choices in 2014
Also: Category II additions expand your data collection arsenal. The American Medical... Read more
Prepare to Add More Chemodenervation Code Choices in 2014
Also: Category II additions expand your data collection arsenal. The American Medical... Read more
Modifiers:
Follow 5 Checkpoints to See if Modifier -22 Applies for Increased Services
The modifier won't add extra pay, but the extra time involved could. Your physicians hav... Read more
Follow 5 Checkpoints to See if Modifier -22 Applies for Increased Services
The modifier won't add extra pay, but the extra time involved could. Your physicians hav... Read more
ICD-10:
Crack This Chronic Neck Pain Code Equivalent in ICD-10
ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes share a common descriptor. Chronic neck pain is a common compla... Read more
Crack This Chronic Neck Pain Code Equivalent in ICD-10
ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes share a common descriptor. Chronic neck pain is a common compla... Read more
PQRS:
Collect Your PQRS Bonus Pay By Knowing Your Reporting Options
Key: The number of providers in your group determines your choice. If your practice p... Read more
Collect Your PQRS Bonus Pay By Knowing Your Reporting Options
Key: The number of providers in your group determines your choice. If your practice p... Read more
Reader Question:
Know When E/M Can Be Billed With EMG
Question: Physicians often refer patients to our neurologists for EMGs. Our neurologist ... Read more
Know When E/M Can Be Billed With EMG
Question: Physicians often refer patients to our neurologists for EMGs. Our neurologist ... Read more
Reader Question:
Same Codes Apply for Ambulatory EEG
Question: We normally report video EEGs with codes 95951 and 95957. Now our physician ha... Read more
Same Codes Apply for Ambulatory EEG
Question: We normally report video EEGs with codes 95951 and 95957. Now our physician ha... Read more
Reader Question:
Get More Details for Post Meningitis Headache Code
Question: A patient developed pneumocephalus meningitis after an attempt to open a block... Read more
Get More Details for Post Meningitis Headache Code
Question: A patient developed pneumocephalus meningitis after an attempt to open a block... Read more
Reader Question:
If a Diagnosis Is Documented and Current, You Can Report It
Question: A patient came to our office for a follow-up visit because of her sleep apnea.... Read more
If a Diagnosis Is Documented and Current, You Can Report It
Question: A patient came to our office for a follow-up visit because of her sleep apnea.... Read more
You Be the Coder:
The Lowdown on Submitting 64450 With 77002
Question: Is it acceptable to bill 64450 with guidance code 77002? South Carolina S... Read more
The Lowdown on Submitting 64450 With 77002
Question: Is it acceptable to bill 64450 with guidance code 77002? South Carolina S... Read more
Case Study:
Follow 3 Steps to Drill Down to the Correct Autonomic Function and EMG Test Codes
Be wary of overlaps between services and descriptors. Coding can get tricky when phys... Read more
Follow 3 Steps to Drill Down to the Correct Autonomic Function and EMG Test Codes
Be wary of overlaps between services and descriptors. Coding can get tricky when phys... Read more
2014 Physician Fee Schedule:
Prepare for More Fee Cuts if Proposed Fee Schedule Holds
Other news: Recoup some pay if you haven’t joined EHR incentive program yet. The... Read more
Prepare for More Fee Cuts if Proposed Fee Schedule Holds
Other news: Recoup some pay if you haven’t joined EHR incentive program yet. The... Read more
Practice Management:
Be Proactive When Handling Employee Complaints
Tip: Implement a grievance process to outline appropriate steps. No employer is perfe... Read more
Be Proactive When Handling Employee Complaints
Tip: Implement a grievance process to outline appropriate steps. No employer is perfe... Read more
ICD-10:
Multiple Sclerosis Code Choice Stays Simple With ICD-10
Heads up: You’ll have more specific choices for Schilder’s disease. Getti... Read more
Multiple Sclerosis Code Choice Stays Simple With ICD-10
Heads up: You’ll have more specific choices for Schilder’s disease. Getti... Read more
Reader Question:
Don't Miss Your Chance to Earn For Each Vertebroplasty Level
Question: How do we report vertebroplasty at level T10 to L2? Do we report level L... Read more
Don't Miss Your Chance to Earn For Each Vertebroplasty Level
Question: How do we report vertebroplasty at level T10 to L2? Do we report level L... Read more
Reader Question:
Payer Guides Who Handles Referral Paperwork
Question: In years past, we required patients to bring in their referral/authorization p... Read more
Payer Guides Who Handles Referral Paperwork
Question: In years past, we required patients to bring in their referral/authorization p... Read more
Reader Question:
Get More Details Before Coding 'RF of the Knee'
Question: One of my physicians wants to perform a radiofrequency of the knee. His recent... Read more
Get More Details Before Coding 'RF of the Knee'
Question: One of my physicians wants to perform a radiofrequency of the knee. His recent... Read more
Reader Question:
Roles Determine Correct Coding for Anesthesia During Kyphoplasty
Question: Our providers offer kyphoplasty in the office setting. One physician per... Read more
Roles Determine Correct Coding for Anesthesia During Kyphoplasty
Question: Our providers offer kyphoplasty in the office setting. One physician per... Read more
Reader Question:
Get Clear on CMS Stance for Unencrypted Email Prohibition
Question: I recently heard that the HIPAA privacy rule was changed and it now prohibits ou... Read more
Get Clear on CMS Stance for Unencrypted Email Prohibition
Question: I recently heard that the HIPAA privacy rule was changed and it now prohibits ou... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Bilateral Intra-articular Facet Nerve Blocks
Question: I’m coding for bilateral intra-articular facet nerve blocks to L1, L2, a... Read more
Bilateral Intra-articular Facet Nerve Blocks
Question: I’m coding for bilateral intra-articular facet nerve blocks to L1, L2, a... Read more
CCI 19.2:
Edits Switch Up Modifier Indicators for Epidural/Nerve Injections With Chemodenervation
Good news: Providers can report fluoro guidance with tendon injections. Hundreds of n... Read more
Edits Switch Up Modifier Indicators for Epidural/Nerve Injections With Chemodenervation
Good news: Providers can report fluoro guidance with tendon injections. Hundreds of n... Read more
Neurology:
Where's the Bed? Locate Place of Service for Accurate Sleep Study Coding
Watch for tricky situations, such as whether you can really report a mobile unit. Phys... Read more
Where's the Bed? Locate Place of Service for Accurate Sleep Study Coding
Watch for tricky situations, such as whether you can really report a mobile unit. Phys... Read more
ICD-10:
You'll Need Specific Region Details to Accurately Report Radiculopathy
Get ready for multiple diagnosis choices. Choosing your diagnosis code for radiculopat... Read more
You'll Need Specific Region Details to Accurately Report Radiculopathy
Get ready for multiple diagnosis choices. Choosing your diagnosis code for radiculopat... Read more
Reader Question:
No EMG Means Only Report for NCS
Question: Our neurologist saw a patient for an EMG and was able to do the nerve conducti... Read more
No EMG Means Only Report for NCS
Question: Our neurologist saw a patient for an EMG and was able to do the nerve conducti... Read more
Reader Question:
Don't Report 64633-64636 for Ultrasound Guidance
Question: Our physician used ultrasound guidance during destruction of paravertebral fac... Read more
Don't Report 64633-64636 for Ultrasound Guidance
Question: Our physician used ultrasound guidance during destruction of paravertebral fac... Read more
Reader Question:
MD Can Administer Moderate Sedation With Discogram
Question: Can the physician who performs a discogram also provide anesthesia during the ... Read more
MD Can Administer Moderate Sedation With Discogram
Question: Can the physician who performs a discogram also provide anesthesia during the ... Read more
Reader Question:
Resort to 'Unlisted' Code for Facet Joint Synovial Cyst Aspiration
Question: How should we code for aspiration of a synovial cyst of the facet joints? ... Read more
Resort to 'Unlisted' Code for Facet Joint Synovial Cyst Aspiration
Question: How should we code for aspiration of a synovial cyst of the facet joints? ... Read more
Reader Question:
Append Modifier 52 for Unilateral 64615 Injection
Question: The physician performed chemodenervation to treat a patient’s migraine, ... Read more
Append Modifier 52 for Unilateral 64615 Injection
Question: The physician performed chemodenervation to treat a patient’s migraine, ... Read more
Reader Question:
Consider Drug, Administration, and Time When Billing Infusions
Question: Our neurologist has decided to start administering Depacon and Keppra infusion... Read more
Consider Drug, Administration, and Time When Billing Infusions
Question: Our neurologist has decided to start administering Depacon and Keppra infusion... Read more
Reader Question:
Look at Payer Before Billing Pre-Op Clearance
Question: What CPT® code should we submit when a surgeon requests pre-op clearance b... Read more
Look at Payer Before Billing Pre-Op Clearance
Question: What CPT® code should we submit when a surgeon requests pre-op clearance b... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Correctly Coding for Percutaneous Balloon Decompression
Question: I’m trying to obtain preauthorization for percutaneous balloon decompres... Read more
Correctly Coding for Percutaneous Balloon Decompression
Question: I’m trying to obtain preauthorization for percutaneous balloon decompres... Read more
Documentation:
Follow 6 Tips to Unlisted Procedure Claims Success
Keep encounter explanations simple, but thorough. Filing for “unlisted” p... Read more
Follow 6 Tips to Unlisted Procedure Claims Success
Keep encounter explanations simple, but thorough. Filing for “unlisted” p... Read more
ICD-10:
Take Our Quiz to Check Your Migraine Coding Know-How
Try your hand at looking up these signs and symptom equivalents. Your pain management ... Read more
Take Our Quiz to Check Your Migraine Coding Know-How
Try your hand at looking up these signs and symptom equivalents. Your pain management ... Read more
Billing:
Simplify Incident-To Claims With This Advice
Expert tip: Check your state’s laws for NPP scope of services. Having non-physi... Read more
Simplify Incident-To Claims With This Advice
Expert tip: Check your state’s laws for NPP scope of services. Having non-physi... Read more
Reader Question:
Submit 64450 for Digital Block, if for Post-Op Relief
Question: Our physician performed a digital nerve block on the patient’s right ind... Read more
Submit 64450 for Digital Block, if for Post-Op Relief
Question: Our physician performed a digital nerve block on the patient’s right ind... Read more
Reader Question:
Include Modifier 22 for Unsuccessful Lead Placement Attempt
Question: Our neurologist scheduled a patient to implant a spinal cord neurostimulator. ... Read more
Include Modifier 22 for Unsuccessful Lead Placement Attempt
Question: Our neurologist scheduled a patient to implant a spinal cord neurostimulator. ... Read more
Reader Question:
728.89 and 20550 Describe Iliotibial Band Injection
Question: What are the correct procedure and diagnosis codes for an iliotibial band inje... Read more
728.89 and 20550 Describe Iliotibial Band Injection
Question: What are the correct procedure and diagnosis codes for an iliotibial band inje... Read more
Reader Question:
Report Multi-Level Transforaminal Injections Separately
Question: The pain management specialist administered three transforaminal epidural inje... Read more
Report Multi-Level Transforaminal Injections Separately
Question: The pain management specialist administered three transforaminal epidural inje... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Medial and Facet Injections During Same Session
Question: Can we bill on the same day for both a medial branch block and a facet injecti... Read more
Medial and Facet Injections During Same Session
Question: Can we bill on the same day for both a medial branch block and a facet injecti... Read more
Coding Strategies:
Conquer Carpal Tunnel Coding Challenges With 4 Tips
Hint: Focus on testing, diagnosis, and treatment. A lack of definitive results f... Read more
Conquer Carpal Tunnel Coding Challenges With 4 Tips
Hint: Focus on testing, diagnosis, and treatment. A lack of definitive results f... Read more
Pain Management:
Know the Differences Between AMA and Medicare Stances on Vertebroplasty
Tip: Double check vertebral locations before choosing additional codes. The AMA and M... Read more
Know the Differences Between AMA and Medicare Stances on Vertebroplasty
Tip: Double check vertebral locations before choosing additional codes. The AMA and M... Read more
ICD-10 Update:
Just How Specific Can You Get For 'Unspecified' Sleep Disorders And Sleep Apnea?
Turn to G47.30 for unspecified sleep apnea and G47.9 for unspecified sleep disorder. W... Read more
Just How Specific Can You Get For 'Unspecified' Sleep Disorders And Sleep Apnea?
Turn to G47.30 for unspecified sleep apnea and G47.9 for unspecified sleep disorder. W... Read more
Reader Question:
Report 996.2 for Failed Spinal Stimulator System
Question: Please suggest the best ICD-9 code for a depleted non-rechargeable lumbar spin... Read more
Report 996.2 for Failed Spinal Stimulator System
Question: Please suggest the best ICD-9 code for a depleted non-rechargeable lumbar spin... Read more
Reader Question:
Do Not Report 95913 with Other NCS Codes
Question: Can we code 95913 along with other nerve conduction study (NCS) codes, 95907-9... Read more
Do Not Report 95913 with Other NCS Codes
Question: Can we code 95913 along with other nerve conduction study (NCS) codes, 95907-9... Read more
Reader Question:
Turn To 767.11 for Subgaleal Hemorrhage
Question: Please suggest an appropriate ICD-9 code for a subgaleal aponeurosis hematoma ... Read more
Turn To 767.11 for Subgaleal Hemorrhage
Question: Please suggest an appropriate ICD-9 code for a subgaleal aponeurosis hematoma ... Read more
Reader Question:
Make Sure Why Lumbar Procedure Is Done
Question: Our neurologist performed a spinal tap for a patient who reported to the ED wi... Read more
Make Sure Why Lumbar Procedure Is Done
Question: Our neurologist performed a spinal tap for a patient who reported to the ED wi... Read more
Reader Question:
Understand Full Meaning of Modifier 53 to Choose Appropriately
Question: Our pain management specialist was in the midst of administering a trigeminal ... Read more
Understand Full Meaning of Modifier 53 to Choose Appropriately
Question: Our pain management specialist was in the midst of administering a trigeminal ... Read more
Reader Question:
Verify Interlaminar Epidural Target Before Choosing the Best Guidance Code
Question: Do payers allow you to report fluoroscopy in conjunction with an interlam... Read more
Verify Interlaminar Epidural Target Before Choosing the Best Guidance Code
Question: Do payers allow you to report fluoroscopy in conjunction with an interlam... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Watch the Bundle in 93982 and 93983
Question: When we are billing out a transcranial Doppler (TCD), we use codes 93886, 9389... Read more
Watch the Bundle in 93982 and 93983
Question: When we are billing out a transcranial Doppler (TCD), we use codes 93886, 9389... Read more
Coding Tips:
Check These Do's and Don'ts for Neurofunctional Testing During Brain Mapping
Report 96020 with 70555, not 70554. You’ll have a straight shot to full reimburs... Read more
Check These Do's and Don'ts for Neurofunctional Testing During Brain Mapping
Report 96020 with 70555, not 70554. You’ll have a straight shot to full reimburs... Read more
Know What to Look For to Support 96020
CPT® code 96020 (Neurofunctional testing selection and administration during noninva... Read more
CPT® code 96020 (Neurofunctional testing selection and administration during noninva... Read more
ICD-10 Update:
ICD-10 Maintains Easy Coding for Quadriplegia
As in ICD-9, check levels and extent of quadriplegia for correct diagnosis. When repor... Read more
ICD-10 Maintains Easy Coding for Quadriplegia
As in ICD-9, check levels and extent of quadriplegia for correct diagnosis. When repor... Read more
Clinical Focus:
What Is Quadriplegia?
The term quadriplegia, is derived from the Latin term ‘quad’ meaning four an... Read more
What Is Quadriplegia?
The term quadriplegia, is derived from the Latin term ‘quad’ meaning four an... Read more
CCI 19.1:
Modifier Indicators Are Your Keys to Success for 64615 Edit Pairs
Also: Watch for hundreds of edits to epidural codes. The latest Correct Coding Initia... Read more
Modifier Indicators Are Your Keys to Success for 64615 Edit Pairs
Also: Watch for hundreds of edits to epidural codes. The latest Correct Coding Initia... Read more
Reader Question:
Confirm with Payer for Technical Component
Question: Our provider visits a hospital and actually performs and reads/interprets EMGs... Read more
Confirm with Payer for Technical Component
Question: Our provider visits a hospital and actually performs and reads/interprets EMGs... Read more
Reader Question:
Check Before You Report Autonomic Tests with EEG
Question: Can we bill for an autonomic testing and EMG testing on the same day? We are w... Read more
Check Before You Report Autonomic Tests with EEG
Question: Can we bill for an autonomic testing and EMG testing on the same day? We are w... Read more
Reader Question:
Submit 64999 with Documentation for Ganglion Impar Procedure
Question: What is the correct CPT® code for ganglion impar neurolysis using Phenol? ... Read more
Submit 64999 with Documentation for Ganglion Impar Procedure
Question: What is the correct CPT® code for ganglion impar neurolysis using Phenol? ... Read more
Reader Question:
Choose 20552 or 20553 -- Not 20605 -- for Trigger Points
Question: The physician administered trigger point injections to fingers 2-5 on both the... Read more
Choose 20552 or 20553 -- Not 20605 -- for Trigger Points
Question: The physician administered trigger point injections to fingers 2-5 on both the... Read more
Reader Question:
Intervertebral Disc Biopsy Leads to 62267
Question: Which code should we use for intervertebral disc biopsy for discitis? I’... Read more
Intervertebral Disc Biopsy Leads to 62267
Question: Which code should we use for intervertebral disc biopsy for discitis? I’... Read more
Reader Question:
Levels and Guidance Are Keys to Facet Injection Coding
Question: Our physician coded facet injections for T11/T12, T12/L1, and L1/L2 as t... Read more
Levels and Guidance Are Keys to Facet Injection Coding
Question: Our physician coded facet injections for T11/T12, T12/L1, and L1/L2 as t... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Report Each Level for Facet Joint Injections
Question: How can we report facet injections? Our provider injected at three levels of t... Read more
Report Each Level for Facet Joint Injections
Question: How can we report facet injections? Our provider injected at three levels of t... Read more
Pain Management:
Check Your Claim Before Reporting Infrared Therapy Treatments
News: CMS no longer pays for 97026. Pain management specialists sometimes prescribe in... Read more
Check Your Claim Before Reporting Infrared Therapy Treatments
News: CMS no longer pays for 97026. Pain management specialists sometimes prescribe in... Read more
Coding Strategies:
Earn Payment for Psychotherapy Services With Add-On Codes
Tip: Check the family involvement and duration of the psychotherapy. While managing a ... Read more
Earn Payment for Psychotherapy Services With Add-On Codes
Tip: Check the family involvement and duration of the psychotherapy. While managing a ... Read more
Reimbursement:
4 Strategies Strengthen Your Modifier 25 Appeals
Hint: Keep focused on global period assignments. Facing repeat denials for modifier 25... Read more
4 Strategies Strengthen Your Modifier 25 Appeals
Hint: Keep focused on global period assignments. Facing repeat denials for modifier 25... Read more
Reader Question:
Switch from 64483 to 0230T for Ultrasound Guidance
Question: The physician documented that he administered transforaminal epidurals to L4/L... Read more
Switch from 64483 to 0230T for Ultrasound Guidance
Question: The physician documented that he administered transforaminal epidurals to L4/L... Read more
Reader Question:
Report Trigger Point Injections Per Session
Question: Medicare is denying us for trigger point code 20553 on the pretext that the in... Read more
Report Trigger Point Injections Per Session
Question: Medicare is denying us for trigger point code 20553 on the pretext that the in... Read more
Reader Question:
Avoid Prolonged Service with 95857
Question: Due to repeat testing in edrophonium testing for myasthenia gravis, our physic... Read more
Avoid Prolonged Service with 95857
Question: Due to repeat testing in edrophonium testing for myasthenia gravis, our physic... Read more
Reader Question:
Watch Units and Bilateral with 64633, +64634
Question: One of our private payers is denying when we bill 64633 and +64634 (with 3 uni... Read more
Watch Units and Bilateral with 64633, +64634
Question: One of our private payers is denying when we bill 64633 and +64634 (with 3 uni... Read more
Reader Question:
Include Add-On Codes for Multi-Level Kyphoplasty
Question: The pain management physician completed a 3-level kyphoplasty with cavity crea... Read more
Include Add-On Codes for Multi-Level Kyphoplasty
Question: The pain management physician completed a 3-level kyphoplasty with cavity crea... Read more
Reader Question:
Code With 64450 for Saphenous Blocks
Question: The physician administered a sciatic nerve block to the thigh and a saphenous ... Read more
Code With 64450 for Saphenous Blocks
Question: The physician administered a sciatic nerve block to the thigh and a saphenous ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Submit 96105 for Every Hour of Service
Question: Our neurologist assessed a stroke patient for aphasia and reported ICD-9 code ... Read more
Submit 96105 for Every Hour of Service
Question: Our neurologist assessed a stroke patient for aphasia and reported ICD-9 code ... Read more
Coding Tips:
Distracted by ADHD Claim Denials? Focus on These Strategies for Improved Results
Key: Don’t forget the E/M component and diagnosis codes. When you report a follo... Read more
Distracted by ADHD Claim Denials? Focus on These Strategies for Improved Results
Key: Don’t forget the E/M component and diagnosis codes. When you report a follo... Read more
Condition Focus:
Review These ADHD Types, Symptoms
Know what behaviors characterize the disorder. Read carefully what history your neuro... Read more
Review These ADHD Types, Symptoms
Know what behaviors characterize the disorder. Read carefully what history your neuro... Read more
CCI Update:
Identify and Report Nerve Conduction As a Distinct Procedure
Don’t miss reporting biopsies, injections, and arthrocentesis. You can report ne... Read more
Identify and Report Nerve Conduction As a Distinct Procedure
Don’t miss reporting biopsies, injections, and arthrocentesis. You can report ne... Read more
Pain Management:
Know Your Anatomy to Better Understand Spinal Epidurals
Tip: Diagnosis can point you to the correct epidural code. When it’s time to re... Read more
Know Your Anatomy to Better Understand Spinal Epidurals
Tip: Diagnosis can point you to the correct epidural code. When it’s time to re... Read more
ICD-10:
Neck Pain Will Have an Easy Code Switch in ICD-10
Descriptor won’t even change from 723.1 to M54.2. Chronic neck pain is one of th... Read more
Neck Pain Will Have an Easy Code Switch in ICD-10
Descriptor won’t even change from 723.1 to M54.2. Chronic neck pain is one of th... Read more
Reader Question:
Watch For Modifiers With 95905
Question: A patient complained of a numb, aching, and burning feeling in the left hand a... Read more
Watch For Modifiers With 95905
Question: A patient complained of a numb, aching, and burning feeling in the left hand a... Read more
Reader Question:
Use Add-Ons When Vertebroplasty Crosses Spinal Regions
Question: Our pain management physician performed a three-level vertebroplasty at T12, L... Read more
Use Add-Ons When Vertebroplasty Crosses Spinal Regions
Question: Our pain management physician performed a three-level vertebroplasty at T12, L... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Use 64615 for Multiple Injections
Question: Can you please clarify if we can still use the chemodenervation codes 64612 an... Read more
Use 64615 for Multiple Injections
Question: Can you please clarify if we can still use the chemodenervation codes 64612 an... Read more
E/M Coding 2013:
Eliminate 'Physician' Focus From Your E/M Thinking
Descriptors specify more qualified personnel can report E/M services. You now have mor... Read more
Eliminate 'Physician' Focus From Your E/M Thinking
Descriptors specify more qualified personnel can report E/M services. You now have mor... Read more
ICD-10 Update:
Pinpoint Seizure Type for Other Forms of Epilepsy
Rule out some specific types before you jump over to ‘other’ seizures. Not... Read more
Pinpoint Seizure Type for Other Forms of Epilepsy
Rule out some specific types before you jump over to ‘other’ seizures. Not... Read more
Useful Definitions
Intractable epilepsy: Seizures that do not respond to antiepileptic treatment with two o... Read more
Intractable epilepsy: Seizures that do not respond to antiepileptic treatment with two o... Read more
CCI 19.0:
Watch Your Codes When Providing Other Services With Nerve Injections or Needle EMGs
Some edits point you to reporting nerve injection, others don’t. Each new year s... Read more
Watch Your Codes When Providing Other Services With Nerve Injections or Needle EMGs
Some edits point you to reporting nerve injection, others don’t. Each new year s... Read more
Reader Question:
Distinguish Muscle, Nerve for Botulinum Toxin
Question: Our physician injected Botox® in the thoracic muscle. Do we report code 64... Read more
Distinguish Muscle, Nerve for Botulinum Toxin
Question: Our physician injected Botox® in the thoracic muscle. Do we report code 64... Read more
Reader Question:
Earn For Discontinued Procedures with Modifier 53
Question: Our neurologist was performing a trigeminal nerve block, 64400 (Injection, ane... Read more
Earn For Discontinued Procedures with Modifier 53
Question: Our neurologist was performing a trigeminal nerve block, 64400 (Injection, ane... Read more
Reader Question:
Verify Location Before Choosing Fluoro Code for Interlaminar Block
Question: Do payers allow you to report fluoroscopy in conjunction with an interla... Read more
Verify Location Before Choosing Fluoro Code for Interlaminar Block
Question: Do payers allow you to report fluoroscopy in conjunction with an interla... Read more
Reader Question:
Check for Current Codes, But NCS/Nerve Block Edit Still Applies
Question: I’m looking for help with billing a peripheral nerve block on the ... Read more
Check for Current Codes, But NCS/Nerve Block Edit Still Applies
Question: I’m looking for help with billing a peripheral nerve block on the ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Choose E/M or 96116 for MSE
Question: Can we report 96116 (Neurobehavioral status exam [clinical assessment of think... Read more
Choose E/M or 96116 for MSE
Question: Can we report 96116 (Neurobehavioral status exam [clinical assessment of think... Read more
Coding Strategies:
Ask 3 Questions to Strengthen Muscle Weakness Reporting in Myasthenia Gravis
You needn’t pay attention to the number of doses or time spent for the testing. ... Read more
Ask 3 Questions to Strengthen Muscle Weakness Reporting in Myasthenia Gravis
You needn’t pay attention to the number of doses or time spent for the testing. ... Read more
What Is Myasthenia Gravis?
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease in which the body produces autoantibodies tha... Read more
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease in which the body produces autoantibodies tha... Read more
AMA Symposium:
Know What to Expect in Chemodenervation and NCS Changes for 2013
Here’s the latest news on implementation, straight from the AMA. January 2013 br... Read more
Know What to Expect in Chemodenervation and NCS Changes for 2013
Here’s the latest news on implementation, straight from the AMA. January 2013 br... Read more
ICD-10 Update:
Simplify Your ICD-10 Reporting For Epilepsy
Don’t forget to check the documentation of status epilepticus. ICD-10 will bring... Read more
Simplify Your ICD-10 Reporting For Epilepsy
Don’t forget to check the documentation of status epilepticus. ICD-10 will bring... Read more
Reader Question:
Ensure That Documentation Supports Bilateral Injection Coding
Question: One of our physicians submitted charges for 64483-50 with the following docume... Read more
Ensure That Documentation Supports Bilateral Injection Coding
Question: One of our physicians submitted charges for 64483-50 with the following docume... Read more
Reader Question:
Stick to 1 Line Item of 64421
Question: Our pain management specialist administered intercostal blocks at T8, T9, T10,... Read more
Stick to 1 Line Item of 64421
Question: Our pain management specialist administered intercostal blocks at T8, T9, T10,... Read more
Reader Question:
Check Manifestation in Diabetic Neuropathy
Question: Our physician indicated the patient has diabetes complicated by peripheral neu... Read more
Check Manifestation in Diabetic Neuropathy
Question: Our physician indicated the patient has diabetes complicated by peripheral neu... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Bill for Follow up after EEG
Question: Our neurologist performs EEGs in the hospital. He performs follow-up services ... Read more
Bill for Follow up after EEG
Question: Our neurologist performs EEGs in the hospital. He performs follow-up services ... Read more