Family Practice Coding Alert:
Bone Density Scans Boost Revenue If You've Got the Correct Combo
Published on Wed May 05, 2010
DEXA, SEXA, CT: Use a unique code for each to firm up pay.Paying attention to three details for your patients' bone density scans can make or break your claims' success. Follow our experts' advice regarding the types of tests, appropriate diagnoses, and acceptable timeframes, and you'll build strong claims and healthy bottom lines.1. Report the Correct Type of ScanBone density scans (also known as bone mass measurements, or BMM) fall into five general categories. Your first step in coding is to determine the study type and site.Ultrasound bone scan: You'll report 76977 (Ultrasound bone density measurement and interpretation, peripheral site[s], any method) when your FP completes a bone scan using ultrasound.CT bone scan: For a CT bone scan, choose 77078 (Computed tomography, bone mineral density study, 1 or more sites; axial skeleton [e.g., hips, pelvis, spine) or 77079 (... appendicular skeleton [peripheral] [e.g., radius, wrist, heel]). "These are used together [...]