Neurosurgery Coding Alert

Pain Pumps:

Dont Forget to Bill for Supplies

If a neurosurgeon supplies the pump and catheter for the implantation (or subsequent replacement), he or she may gain reimbursement through the local durable medical equipment regional carrier (DMERC) by using the applicable HCPCS E code:

  • E0782 Infusion pump, implantable, nonpro-grammable
  • E0783 Infusion pump system; implantable, programmable (includes all components,e.g., pump, catheter, connectors, etc.)
  • E0785 Implantable intraspinal (epidural/ intrathecal) catheter used with implantable infusion pump, replacement
  • E0786 Implantable programmable infusion pump, replacement (excludes implantable intraspinal catheter).

    Note: To find a DMERC number, visit the following Web sites:

    Region A (Northeast):
    www.uhc.com

    Region B (Midwest): www.astar-federal.com/anthem/affiliates/adminastar/dmerc/index.html

    Region C (South): www.pgba.com

    Region D (West): www.cignamedicare.com/dmerc.

    The drugs/medication to be administered by the pump is billed using the HCPCS J code appropriate to the drug and dosage (e.g., J0476, Injection, baclofen, 50 mcg for intrathecal trial).