Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

Question: I know in the past it was common to use the unspecified code 59999 for cord blood collection at the time of delivery, but after reading up, I found that some people are using 59899. I tried using 59899, but the insurance company bundled it with the delivery. Did I use the wrong code? For some reason, I keep thinking I should have used S2140, but it's been awhile since I needed to bill one out.

Kansas Subscriber

Answer: This question is one of coverage in addition to coding.  Many of the larger insurance companies will only cover the cord blood collection if the intent is to use the blood for a transfer within 36 months (which includes CIGNA). United and BCBS of Michigan will not cover it at all -- unless there is an immediate need for the transplant of cord blood (and in that case, BCBS requires you to report code 38999, Unlisted procedure, hemic or lymphatic system).  

You will find no specific CPT® codes for the collection. Also, code 59999 is not a valid CPT® code. The correct code for the collection of cord blood using a CPT® code is 59899 (Unlisted procedure, maternity care and delivery)

BCBS did add code S2140 (Cord blood harvesting for transplantation, allogeneic) a few years back, which is another option. Finally, some payers will never pay the delivering ob-gyn for collecting the blood whether they cover storing it or not.

Best bet: You need to check with the payer you will be billing to find out if they will cover collection and which code they prefer, so your patient can make an informed decision about paying for it, should her insurance not cover it.