Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Answer: Code 95851 (range of motion measurements and report [separate procedure]); for each extremity (excluding hand) or each trunk section (spine) applies to manually testing each arm or leg or sections of the spinal muscles in a separately reported procedure. To bill for each extremity, the neurologist should report the procedure on one line of the HCFA-1500 or claim form, and bill one unit for each extremity. For example, 95851 for one unit would be for one extremity, two units for two extremities and so on. This testing should include a report for each extremity or spinal section examined.

Some doctors have reported difficulty getting paid for electronic range of motion and electronic muscle testing in various body regions.

To document manual range of motion measurements for the hand, with or without comparison with normal side, use 95852 (range of motion measurements and report [separate procedure]; hand, with or without comparison with normal side).

To report manual muscle testing for the arm, leg or trunk use 95831 (muscle testing, manual [separate procedure] with report; extremity [excluding hand] or trunk).

For manual muscle testing for the hand with or without comparison with normal side use 95832 (muscle testing, manual [separate procedure] with report; hand, with or without comparison with normal side).

For total evaluation of the body, excluding hands, use 95833 (muscle testing, manual [separate procedure] with report; total evaluation of body, excluding hands).

If the total evaluation includes hands, use 95834 (muscle testing, manual [separate procedure] with report; total evaluation of body, including hands).

These procedures may be performed regularly and included in a standard E/M service and generally will be denied when billed at the same time. They normally are used when the test is performed independently of the E/M service. Call the carrier to see if there are specific reporting requirements for these procedures and always request that they provide this information in writing.