Pediatric Coding Alert

When coding for Phenergan, don’t mix up the “25” with a “22.” You should use J2550 (Injection, promethazine HCl, up to 50 mg) for Phenergan (generic promethazine). The May 2006 Pediatric Coding Alert lists the J code for Phenergan incorrectly as J2250 (Injection, midazolam HCl, per 1 mg), says Lisa Worthington-White, RHIT, CPC, coding manager at White-Wilson Medical Center in Ft. Walton Beach, Fla.

The example in “Take 1 Step When Infusions Involve Multiple Substances” that describes a 30-minute infusion of Phenergan and a 250-cc bag of common saline solution for a patient who had diarrhea and vomiting should be coded:

• 90765 -- Intravenous infusion, for therapy,��'prophylaxis, or diagnosis (specify substance or��'drug); initial, up to 1 hour
• J2550.

“The case provided the incorrect HCPCS code and description in the example,” says Bruce Rappoport, MD, CPC, CHCC, principal of advisory services for Rachlin Cohen & Holtz LLP in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

Use J2250 for Versed.