New York Subscriber
Answer: The first x-ray should be reported with the appropriate CPT code (e.g., 72040, radiologic examination, spine, cervical; two or three views) using the radiologist's identification number. The second x-ray should be billed using the CPT code (e.g., 72070, radiologic examination, spine; thoracic, two views) with the -TC modifier (technical component) for the radiologist's portion, and modifier -26 (professional component) for the physiatrist's interpretation.
Answers to Reader Questions and You Be the Coder were provided by Laureen Jandroep, OTR, CPC, CCS-P CPC-H, owner of A+ Medical Management and Education, a national coding and reimbursement school and consulting firm in Absecon, N.J.; and Joseph R. Batte, CFE, former supervisory special agent for the OIG, and an independent compliance consultant in Marco Island, Fla.