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Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

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Match Mesothelioma Case to Codes

Published on Thu Nov 15, 2012

Question: What are the proper codes for this encounter? The diagnosis is malignant pleural mesothelioma.10:04-10:14 p.m., Alimta, 960 mg10:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m., CDDP, 144 mgNew Mexico SubscriberAnswer: This case includes a 10-minute push of Alimta (pemetrexed) and a two-hour infusion of CDDP (cisplatin). CDDP: You should choose the "initial substance" code based on the longer administration time required for the cisplatin. The appropriate coding for a two-hour infusion of the same substance is:1 unit of 96413, Chemotherapy administration, intravenous infusion technique; up to 1 hour, single or initial substance/drug1 unit of +96415, ... each additional hour (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).You should report 15 units of J9060 (Injection, cisplatin, powder or solution, 10 mg) for the 144 mg administered (144 mg divided my 10 mg equals 14.4, round up to 15).Alimta: The 10-minute administration of pemetrexed qualifies for push code +96411 (Chemotherapy administration; intravenous, push technique, each [...]
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