Orthopedic Coding Alert

Question: When do 2008 HCPCS codes go into effect? I thought it was Jan. 1, but I heard someone talking about April 1.

Indiana Subscriber

Answer: New HCPCS codes go into effect each year on Jan. 1, at the same time as CPT codes. But changes may take place later in the year, too.

Example: On the CMS Web site, you can find a file of changes going into effect April 1. Head to http://www.cms.hhs.gov/HCPCSReleaseCodeSets/02_HCPCS_Quarterly_Update.asp and click on "Other Codes effective 4/1/08 - [Excel/CSV ZIP 6KB]."

You-ll see a short list of revisions and additions, such as the added code K0672 (Addition to lower extremity orthosis, removable soft interface, all components, replacement only, each). The chart tells you the code is effective April 1 with coverage "C," which means payment is at the carrier's discretion.

-- Reader Questions and You Be the Coder were reviewed by Heidi Stout, CPC,CCS-P, director of orthopedic coding services at The Coding Network LLC; and Bill Mallon, MD, orthopedic surgeon and medical director at Triangle Orthopaedic Associates in Durham, N.C.