Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert

Question: I was wondering if there is a CPT to refurbish an ankle-foot orthosis. My doctor thinks a code exists, but I'm not sure. What are the rules that govern it (if there's a code)?

Answer: No code for refurbishing an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) exists. Some podiatrists will bill an E/M code based upon the amount of time and complexity of the AFO and not to forget the materials involved. It is a grey area and some consider it a noncovered service.