Ob-Gyn Coding Alert
New Category III Codes Ease Leiomyoma Ultrasound Reporting
AMA also provides new code for online E/M services Beginning July 1, you can start using new Category III codes that should simplify reporting certain leiomyomata ultrasound ablation services. And for those practices that are recommending or ordering colonoscopy for their patients, two new codes describe "virtual colonoscopy." Notes that accompany the codes indicate that you cannot report 0066T or 0067T with 72192-72194 (pelvis CT), 74150-74170 (abdomen CT) or 76375 (Coronal, sagittal, multiplanar, oblique, 3-dimensional and/or holographic reconstruction of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or other tomographic modality). Similarly, you cannot report 0071T or 0072T with 51702 (Insertion of temporary indwelling bladder catheter; simple) or 76394 (Magnetic resonance guidance for, and monitoring of, visceral tissue ablation).
You must report Category III codes rather than an unlisted-procedure code when the ob-gyn performs a procedure the codes describe, says Melanie Witt, RN, CPC, MA, an ob-gyn coding expert based in Fredericksburg, Va. But remember that T codes are temporary codes and refer to new technologies, and some payers refuse to reimburse for them.
T codes are important: Even when the payer does not reimburse for the new technology, reporting these codes is very important, Witt emphasizes. "They represent the only way for data to be collected that may affect both public and private coverage policy decisions and to track the newer procedures for efficacy, utilization level and outcomes."
The new codes were released on Jan. 1 and become effective July 1. Of the new codes taking effect, those most likely to impact ob-gyn practices include:
0072T -- ... total leiomyomata volume greater than or equal to 200 cc of tissue
Online E/M: The notes describing an online medical evaluation (0074T) state that the "reportable services involve the physician's personal timely response to the patient's inquiry and must involve permanent storage (electronic or hard copy) of the encounter." Also, you should not use the new code for documented patient contacts, such as phone calls, that are considered part of the preservice or postservice work for other E/M or non-E/M services. "A reportable service would encompass the sum of communication (e.g., related telephone calls, prescription provision, laboratory orders) pertaining to the online patient encounter or problem(s)," the AMA states.
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