Part B Insider (Multispecialty) Coding Alert

You'll find 21 new codes to guide your electrophysiology coding choices, as well as an in-depth explanation for each type of device.

CPT 2009 appears to offer the most plentiful changes to cardiology practices, with the addition of several new codes for electrophysiologists (also referred to as EPs).

In fact, many EP coders know the 93727-93736 series (Electronic analysis...) by heart -- but that knowledge will go by the wayside Jan. 1, when CPT deletes the whole code series, as well as 93741-93744 (Electronic analysis of pacing cardioverter-defibrillator) and 93760-93762 (Thermogram).

In place of these trusted cardiology codes, you'll find a whole new section entitled, "Cardiovascular Device Monitoring -- Implantable and Wearable Devices," with a code range from 93279 (Programming device evaluation with iterative adjustment of the implantable device to test the function of the device and select optimal permanent programmed values with physician analysis, review and report; single lead pacemaker system) through 93299 (Interrogation device evaluation[s], [remote] up to 30 days; implantable cardiovascular monitor system or implantable loop recorder system, remote data acquisition[s], receipt of transmissions and technician review, technical support and distribution of results).

Bonus: Just as important as the 21 new codes, however, is the nearly three-page explanation that CPT 2009 provides to walk you through the different types of EP devices you might encounter.

For instance, CPT offers in-depth descriptions that help you differentiate between single-lead and double-lead devices. In addition, you'll find explanations of implantable loop recorders, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, and other devices.

"It's actually going to help a lot of people, I think," says Carla Whitmire, a biller with Strategic Coding Systems in Little Rock, Ark. "If CPT's going to give new codes for various types of devices, it would stand to reason that they'd explain what each device is, to eliminate confusion. Usually CPT provides this type of information in its CPT Changes book, but this year it's all in CPT," she says.

Peri-procedural code: One new code that practices will enjoy is 93286 (Peri-procedural device evaluation and programming of device system parameters before or after a surgery, procedure, or test with physicain analysis, review and report; single, dual, or multiple lead pacemaker system).

CPT advises that you may "Report 93286 once before and once after surgery, procedure, or test, when device evaluation and programming is performed before and after surgery, procedure, or test."

"This code should be very useful -- as long as Medicare offers decent reimbursement for it," Whitmire says. "That part will remain to be seen."