Otolaryngology Coding Alert
Are Photos Required to report 31579?
Question: Are photos or videos required for us to justify reporting stroboscopy? If not, what documentation should we have? Maine Subscriber Answer: Code 31579 (Laryngoscopy, flexible or rigid telescopic, with stroboscopy) is a standalone code you should report when the provider uses a flexible or rigid fiberoptic laryngoscope to look inside the larynx, or voice box, to detect the presence of any abnormalities. Stroboscopy is a method of examining the vocal cords that involves illuminating and vibrating the vocal folds with a bright light for a fraction of a second. Your physician is not required to provide photos or videos to the insurer for reimbursement unless the insurance company asks for it as a special requirement.
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