Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Question: How do we report when our physician prescribes an H-wave device for electrical stimulation for post-operative pain?

Ohio Subscriber

Answer: H-wave stimulation is a distinct form of electrical stimulation used to treat pain. When your physician performs H-wave stimulation, you bill using the nonspecific CPT® code 97014 (Application of a modality to 1 or more areas; electrical stimulation [unattended]). Be aware that Medicare uses alternate HCPCS codes to report unattended electrical stimulation -- G0283 (Electrical stimulation (unattended), to one or more areas for indication(s) other than wound care, as part of a therapy plan of care). This would be the code to report for pain management.

When your physician prescribes electrical stimulation for use in the home (purchase of H-wave device) or when your provider/practice dispenses one, you will report HCPCS code E0745 (Neuromuscular stimulator, electronic shock unit) instead.

Also, check your payer coverage for this type of treatment. Some commercial payers have very limited coverage, for example, limited only for diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Other payers consider it to be investigational and non-covered.