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Otolaryngology Coding Alert
Otolaryngology Coding Alert
Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 12
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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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You Be the Coder:
Know What Sinus Services Include Middle Turbinate Excision
Question: The provider performs bilateral endoscopic maxillary antrostomies and bilateral ...
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Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 11
CPT® Coding:
Use These Tips, Examples to Enhance Microlaryngoscopic Coding Skills
Plus, know what circumstances warrant reporting an unlisted code. Knowing your way around...
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Emerging Technology:
Code Accordingly When Introducing SINUVA™, PROPEL™ Implants to Your Practice
Identify differences between surgical techniques and coding considerations. Across ENT pr...
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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...
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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 ...
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Reader Question:
Code Smoker of Any Frequency as Nicotine Dependent
Question: We have a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who currentl...
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You Be the Coder:
Check Status Indicators Before Billing Bilaterally
Question: Can you bill CPT® code 42808 bilaterally? Michigan Subscriber Answer: In orde...
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Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 10
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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 9
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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 8
Modifiers:
Tread Carefully Using Modifier 57 with Minor Surgical Procedures
Don't let the contradicting guidelines overwhelm you. Modifier 57 (Decision for surgery) ...
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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...
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ICD-10 Coding:
Simplify Your Respiratory Dx Coding with this Comprehensive Chart
Plus, incorporate this expert advice into your Coding respiratory diagnoses is notoriousl...
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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...
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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...
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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 ...
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Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 7
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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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Reader Question:
Submit Non-Reimbursable Postoperative Visits to Payer
Question: For a postoperative, related evaluation and management (E/M) visit within the gl...
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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...
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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...
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Reader Question:
Submit Non-Reimbursable Postoperative Visits to Payer
Question: For a postoperative, related evaluation and management (E/M) visit within the gl...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 6
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...
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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...
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Conquer your COPD Coding with These Helpful Tips
Choose the appropriate diagnosis after reading the case. Although most otolaryngology pra...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 5
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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 4
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...
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CPT® Coding:
Follow this Advice on Pituitary Removal Co-Surgeries
Understand the ENT's role and the appropriate CPT® and modifier designations. Occasional...
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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...
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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...
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Reader Question:
Code Unlisted, Submit ABN for SLIT Treatment
Question: How should I be billing out for SLIT drops? Is this procedure generally reimburs...
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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 ...
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You Be the Coder:
Myringotomy, Cerumen Removal, and Same-Site Tympanostomy
Question: Prior to performing a tympanostomy with tube placement, the provider performed a...
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Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 3
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...
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CPT® Coding:
Key on Complex Repair, Adjacent Tissue Transfer Code Differences
Rely on CPT® rules to outline the fundamentals behind both procedures. Sometimes, choosi...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 2
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...
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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 ...
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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 ...
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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)...
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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...
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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...
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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) ...
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Otolaryngology Coding Alert - 2018; Volume 20, Number 1
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...
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NCCI:
Get Familiar with these NCCI Policies on Lesion Removal
Set yourself up for success by adopting these Medicare guidelines. Occasionally, otolaryn...
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Compliance:
Integrate these New ABN Features into Your Practice
Check out these changes to CMS' ABN form. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services ...
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Reader Question:
Coding Hematomas with No Known Trauma
Question: How do I code a diagnosis of hematoma of the sternothyroid muscle? Florida Subs...
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Reader Question:
Use These Tips to Correctly Code Nodule, Hyperthyroidism Combo
Question: A patient diagnosed with hyperthyroidism was found to have an additional single ...
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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...
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