Advanced Search

Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Treat H-wave Stimulation as Electrical Stimulation

Published on Wed Aug 22, 2012

Question: How do we report when our physician prescribes an H-wave device for electrical stimulation for post-operative pain?Ohio SubscriberAnswer: 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 [...]
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

View All