Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

Question: We offer patients materials on lifestyle changes they can make to improve their health and reduce side effects. Is there a way we can offset the cost of educational materials, pamphlets, etc., that we provide to patients and payers?


Ohio Subscriber

Answer: CPT does contain a code for educational materials--99071 (Educational supplies, such as books, tapes and pamphlets, provided by the physician for the patient's education at cost to physician).

Snag: You should check with your payers to determine if they will reimburse you for the cost of educational materials when you use 99071. Don't be surprised if most payers decline.

You could ask the payer about having their beneficiaries cover the cost of educational materials directly, but patients may be offended if you start charging them for pamphlets. Plus: You can't charge Medicare beneficiaries because carriers bundle providing educational materials into the other services that you are reimbursed for under the Physician Fee Schedule.

Another option: Your drug and equipment vendors may supply educational materials at no cost to you.