Otolaryngology Coding Alert

NCCI Policy:
Wrangle in This Nuanced Set of NCCI Endoscopic Surgery Policies
Think twice before coding separately for access routes. As a surgical coder, you're all t... Read more
ICD-10-CM Coding:
Address the Infamous Excludes1 Coder's Dilemma Once and For All
Use this Q&A from the Coding Clinic as your guiding resource. This month, we'll to ad... Read more
Modifiers:
Refresh Your Modifier 24 Knowledge, Discern Fact From Fiction
Find out how modifier 24 is fundamentally tied to the global surgical package. Consider t... Read more
Reader Question:
Let ICD-10-CM Index Guide You to Proper Influenza Combo Code
Question: A nurse practitioner (NP) performs a rapid influenza diagnostic test (RIDT) in o... Read more
Reader Question:
Use ICD-10 Coding Notes in the Appropriate Context
Question: At the beginning of the J section in the ICD10-CM manual, there is a note to cod... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Know What Sinus Services Include Middle Turbinate Excision
Question: The provider performs bilateral endoscopic maxillary antrostomies and bilateral ... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Use These Tips, Examples to Enhance Microlaryngoscopic Coding Skills
Plus, know what circumstances warrant reporting an unlisted code. Knowing your way around... Read more
Emerging Technology:
Code Accordingly When Introducing SINUVA™, PROPEL™ Implants to Your Practice
Identify differences between surgical techniques and coding considerations. Across ENT pr... Read more
2019 E/M Proposals:
Prep for These Sweeping CMS-Proposed E/M Changes in 2019
Get to know how these new CMS proposed rules might affect your practice. Fee schedule cha... Read more
Reader Question:
Discern Between Incision, Approach With Aural Glomus Tumor Excisions
Question: What CPT® code should I use to report a transcanal excision of an aural glomus ... Read more
Reader Question:
Code Smoker of Any Frequency as Nicotine Dependent
Question: We have a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who currentl... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Check Status Indicators Before Billing Bilaterally
Question: Can you bill CPT® code 42808 bilaterally? Michigan Subscriber Answer: In orde... Read more
CPT® Case Study:
Channel NCCI Policy for these Surgical Combo Services
Plus, know when and when not to consider reporting modifier 59. If you're in unfamiliar s... Read more
ICD-10 Coding:
Streamline Your P Code Reporting Using This Comprehensive Guide
Review all the most important ICD-10-CM guidelines on P codes here. Pediatric coding is o... Read more
E/M Coding:
Report Concurrent Care Services With Ease Using These Tips
Rely on documentation as the key to coding concurrent care accurately. Consider this conf... Read more
Reader Question:
Refer to CPT® Estimations for Time-Based E/M Visits
Question: During an office visit, the doctor documents that he spent 25 minutes with the p... Read more
Reader Question:
Go Unlisted for Laryngoscopy, Tracheoscopy With Tissue Removal
Question: I'm looking for a direct laryngoscopy code that includes a tracheoscopy, going b... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Avoid 92504 When Procedure Leads to Increased Services
Question: If we have an established patient present with right ear pain in addition to con... Read more
2019 ICD-10-CM Codes:
Prep Now for ICD-10-CM Changes to Postprocedural Complications, More
Consider these crucial additions, revisions, and deletions to get a head start on 2019. G... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Think Twice Before Reporting Biopsy With Nasal, Sinus Procedures
Tune in to these guidelines to ensure reimbursement and streamline billing. While ENTs fa... Read more
Compliance:
Maximize your APP's Potential in the Workplace, Adhere to These Guidelines
Keep an eye on these federal and state guidelines. Like most otolaryngology practices thr... Read more
Reader Question:
Fall Back on CMS Global Surgery Booklet for Postop Complication Coding
Question: We had a patient return two days following an inferior turbinate ablation surger... Read more
Reader Question:
Use Abnormal Blood Chemistry Codes to Report Elevated B12 Levels
Question: How do I code a patient with an elevated B-12 level? Minnesota Subscriber Answ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Test New FESS Code Knowledge With This Scenario
Question: How should I report a bilateral total ethmoidectomy with a right frontal sinusot... Read more
Modifiers:
Tread Carefully Using Modifier 57 with Minor Surgical Procedures
Don't let the contradicting guidelines overwhelm you. Modifier 57 (Decision for surgery) ... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Master the Art of Lip Laceration Repair with these Scenarios
Plus, get a handle on the intricacies of the 4065X code set. Last month, you were present... Read more
ICD-10 Coding:
Simplify Your Respiratory Dx Coding with this Comprehensive Chart
Plus, incorporate this expert advice into your Coding respiratory diagnoses is notoriousl... Read more
Reader Question:
Use Additional B Code for Peritonsillar Abscess due to Strep Throat
Question: How do I code a patient with strep throat, tonsillitis, and a peritonsillar absc... Read more
Reader Question:
Discern Between Anatomy of Salivary Duct, Gland
Question: I'm trying to code a report for a probe dilation of Stenson's duct due to obstru... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Use Caution Coding Additional Services During E/M Encounter
Question: We have a patient who came in with complaints of an earache. The provider noted ... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Utilize these 2 Tips on your Way to Coding Intermediate, Complex Lip Repairs
Focus on type of laceration, vermillion border for correct code set. Coding wound repairs... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Rely on Unlisted Code, Accurate Comparison to Report AERA ETD System
Plus, know how to properly bill AERA with 69436. Prior to the development of the Acclaren... Read more
ICD-10 Coding:
Hone in on Documentation, ICD-10 Index for Accurate Diabetes Coding
Go from general to specific with these 5 simple suggestions. With almost 250 different di... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Utilize these 2 Tips on your Way to Coding Intermediate, Complex Lip Repairs
Focus on type of laceration, vermillion border for correct code set. Coding wound repairs... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Rely on Unlisted Code, Accurate Comparison to Report AERA ETD System
Plus, know how to properly bill AERA with 69436. Prior to the development of the Acclaren... Read more
ICD-10 Coding:
Hone in on Documentation, ICD-10 Index for Accurate Diabetes Coding
Go from general to specific with these 5 simple suggestions. With almost 250 different di... Read more
Reader Question:
Submit Non-Reimbursable Postoperative Visits to Payer
Question: For a postoperative, related evaluation and management (E/M) visit within the gl... Read more
Reader Question:
Think Twice Before Coding Allergic Vasomotor Rhinitis
Question: How do I code allergic vasomotor rhinitis? It seems like there's a code for alle... Read more
Reader Question:
Decide Between 52, RT/LT for Terminated Turbinate RFA
Question: We have a patient present with chronic hypertrophy of the turbinates who was sch... Read more
Reader Question:
Submit Non-Reimbursable Postoperative Visits to Payer
Question: For a postoperative, related evaluation and management (E/M) visit within the gl... Read more
Reader Question:
Think Twice Before Coding Allergic Vasomotor Rhinitis
Question: How do I code allergic vasomotor rhinitis? It seems like there's a code for alle... Read more
Reader Question:
Decide Between 52, RT/LT for Terminated Turbinate RFA
Question: We have a patient present with chronic hypertrophy of the turbinates who was sch... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Know CPT® Guidelines on Reporting Moderate Sedation Administration
Question: I have two patients (over 5 years of age) receiving moderate sedation. One recei... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Know CPT® Guidelines on Reporting Moderate Sedation Administration
Question: I have two patients (over 5 years of age) receiving moderate sedation. One recei... Read more
Distinguish Between Complications and Known Surgical Risks
Know when to use the ICD-10-CM index as a reference. When it comes to coding surgical pro... Read more
E/M Coding:
Consider these Tips on Using Time to Report E/M Visits
Survey the visit, documentation to make the correct determination. For most coders workin... Read more
Conquer your COPD Coding with These Helpful Tips
Choose the appropriate diagnosis after reading the case. Although most otolaryngology pra... Read more
Reader Question:
Use Discretion, Provider Input when Determining HIV-Related Symptoms
Question: The physician saw an HIV-positive patient for treatment of numerous chronic mout... Read more
Reader Question:
Apply 90630, Admin Code for Intradermal Quadrivalent Vaccine
Question: A 24-year-old patient receives a .1 ml microinjection of Fluzone Intradermal Qua... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Familiarize Yourself with Rules Surrounding Repair Size Versus Complexity
Question: Under the exam heading, the surgeon documents the following procedure: Complex r... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Discern Between Destruction, Excision with Turbinate-Based Surgeries
Plus, know what role RFA may play in excisions. Making the proper distinctions between on... Read more
ICD-10 Coding:
Factor in Patient Status, Time for Accurate Sequela Coding
Fall back on the guidelines when the going gets tough. As an otolaryngology coder, you wi... Read more
E/M Coding:
Address these Common Myths, Avoid Perils of HPI Coding
Know what counts - and what doesn't - in E/M level calculations. If you get confused fact... Read more
Reader Question:
Check CCI Edits Before Coding 31231 with 31237
Question: Is 31231 considered a component of 31237 when 31231 is performed on the left sid... Read more
Reader Question:
Grasp Fundamental Differences Between Indirect, Direct, Flexible Laryngoscopy
Question: An established patient came in for an office visit (99212) for a chronic sore th... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Harness Your Anatomy, Medical Term Knowledge for Proper S&S Coding
Question: We have a patient with diagnoses of chronic frontal sinusitis with ocular and bi... Read more
Compliance:
Sidestep These 10 Common Medicare Submission Mistakes
Hint: Part B MACs even have a favorite font for your claim forms. When it comes to submit... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Follow this Advice on Pituitary Removal Co-Surgeries
Understand the ENT's role and the appropriate CPT® and modifier designations. Occasional... Read more
ICD-10 Coding:
Problem-Solve these Two Confounding Diagnostic Scenarios
Use the guidelines and your coder's intuition to get these diagnoses right. All coders ev... Read more
Reader Question:
Report Modifiers 24, 25 together Under Certain Circumstances
Question: Can you ever report modifiers 24 and 25 on the same claim? Hawaii Subscriber A... Read more
Reader Question:
Code Unlisted, Submit ABN for SLIT Treatment
Question: How should I be billing out for SLIT drops? Is this procedure generally reimburs... Read more
Reader Question:
Refer to Status Codes, Med Necessity for 94150, 95115/17 Coding
Question: Can you bill out 94150 with 95115 and 95117? We have been receiving denials for ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Myringotomy, Cerumen Removal, and Same-Site Tympanostomy
Question: Prior to performing a tympanostomy with tube placement, the provider performed a... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Nail Down Correct Usage of New Bundled FESS Codes
Attempting to decipher the parenthetical notes is where it really gets tricky. As you may... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Key on Complex Repair, Adjacent Tissue Transfer Code Differences
Rely on CPT® rules to outline the fundamentals behind both procedures. Sometimes, choosi... Read more
ICD-10 Coding:
Rely on Instincts, Intuition When Returning Chart to Provider
Take a look at these two P code examples to maximize your ICD-10 coding skills. Coders ar... Read more
Reader Question:
Use NPI to Differentiate Between Part A, Part B
Question: A Medicare patient has been admitted to the hospital for three days and underwen... Read more
Reader Question:
Use 20680 Over Unlisted for Intraoral Implant Removals
Question: The physician performed surgery to remove a titanium screw from the floor of a p... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Don't Confuse ATF with Fasciocutaneous Flap Placement
Question: Should I code an adjacent tissue transfer and the placement of fasciocutaneous f... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Note these Clarifications to LATERA Procedure Coding Policy
Consider this important update to last month's article. Last month, you were briefed on t... Read more
Compliance:
Consider Payer Before Writing Off E/M, Non-OR Visits Within Global Period
Know when a payer's policies may not align with CMS. Medicare's rules are clear-cut when ... Read more
ICD-10 Coding:
Coding Quiz: Can you Correctly Code these Ear Diseases?
Hint: Nonessential modifiers are essential to your success. When coding diagnoses for an ... Read more
Reader Question:
Consider these New UHC Rules in Place for E/M Encounters
Question: Our practice has been told that there are new rules for nurse practitioners (NP)... Read more
Reader Question:
Do Not Bill Related E/M Service within 90-Day Global Period
Question: A patient presents for an evaluation and management (E/M) visit two-weeks follow... Read more
Reader Question:
Rely on ICD-10 Guidelines for Adverse Effects of Chemotherapy
Question: A patient arrives for an evaluation and management (E/M) visit following chemoth... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Check LCD, Payer Reimbursement Policies when Appealing Medical Necessity Denial
Question: We have a patient who presents for a maxillofacial computerized tomography (CT) ... Read more
CPT® Coding:
Learn the Coding Fundamentals Behind this New Nasal Implant Procedure
Plus: Outline these key terms in the op report. For the most part, medical coders don't n... Read more
NCCI:
Get Familiar with these NCCI Policies on Lesion Removal
Set yourself up for success by adopting these Medicare guidelines. Occasionally, otolaryn... Read more
Compliance:
Integrate these New ABN Features into Your Practice
Check out these changes to CMS' ABN form. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services ... Read more
Reader Question:
Coding Hematomas with No Known Trauma
Question: How do I code a diagnosis of hematoma of the sternothyroid muscle? Florida Subs... Read more
Reader Question:
Use These Tips to Correctly Code Nodule, Hyperthyroidism Combo
Question: A patient diagnosed with hyperthyroidism was found to have an additional single ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Pinpoint Difference Between Unspecified, Uncertain Behavior
Question: A patient presents with a tumor of the sphenoid sinus. The physician biopsies th... Read more
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