Pulmonology Coding Alert
CPT® 2012:
Refine Your Medicine, Cardiothoracic Surgery Reporting With Key Code Expansions
Give up diagnostic thoracoscopy code 32602 in favor of newbies 32607-32609.Remember to che... Read more
Refine Your Medicine, Cardiothoracic Surgery Reporting With Key Code Expansions
Give up diagnostic thoracoscopy code 32602 in favor of newbies 32607-32609.Remember to che... Read more
2012 E/M Revisions:
Supplement Your 99218-99220 Descriptors With Added Time Guidelines
CPT® confirms RVUs for subsequent observation care codes 99224-99226.Say hello to fr... Read more
Supplement Your 99218-99220 Descriptors With Added Time Guidelines
CPT® confirms RVUs for subsequent observation care codes 99224-99226.Say hello to fr... Read more
Evaluation and Management:
Q&A: Support Your E/M Skills With 3 Fresh Facts
File that E/M claim regardless of inconclusive diagnosis -- but make sure you document eve... Read more
Q&A: Support Your E/M Skills With 3 Fresh Facts
File that E/M claim regardless of inconclusive diagnosis -- but make sure you document eve... Read more
Reader Questions:
Oxygen Therapy: Designate Supply Code Instead Of 94799
Question:I'm billing oxygen therapy provided during an office visit for a Medicare patient... Read more
Oxygen Therapy: Designate Supply Code Instead Of 94799
Question:I'm billing oxygen therapy provided during an office visit for a Medicare patient... Read more
Reader Question:
Bill 31628 If Biopsies Occurs In The Same Lobe
Question:Op note says: The pulmonologist introduced the scope through the right nostril an... Read more
Bill 31628 If Biopsies Occurs In The Same Lobe
Question:Op note says: The pulmonologist introduced the scope through the right nostril an... Read more
Reader Question:
Submit Your Medicare Enrollment Revalidation Before March 2013
Question:What does CMS's policy on revalidation of provider enrollment information imply?S... Read more
Submit Your Medicare Enrollment Revalidation Before March 2013
Question:What does CMS's policy on revalidation of provider enrollment information imply?S... Read more
Reader Question:
Designate Place Of Service Codes With Appropriate NPI
Question:What POS should we use when our physician does interpretations of sleep studies f... Read more
Designate Place Of Service Codes With Appropriate NPI
Question:What POS should we use when our physician does interpretations of sleep studies f... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Medicare Covers PFT Technical Component -- But With Limitations
Question:My claim implies pulmonary function test without physician interpretation. Will M... Read more
Medicare Covers PFT Technical Component -- But With Limitations
Question:My claim implies pulmonary function test without physician interpretation. Will M... Read more
Diagnosis Code Update:
ICD-9-CM: Take A Sneak Peek On Changes In 3 Respiratory Conditions
Don't report 488.12 unless physician confirms H1N1 influenza. Find out what code should fi... Read more
ICD-9-CM: Take A Sneak Peek On Changes In 3 Respiratory Conditions
Don't report 488.12 unless physician confirms H1N1 influenza. Find out what code should fi... Read more
ICD-10:
J93: Standby For 'Greater Detail' Pneumothorax Codes in 2013
But first, fifth-digit requirements on NOS go into effect next year.When a patient experie... Read more
J93: Standby For 'Greater Detail' Pneumothorax Codes in 2013
But first, fifth-digit requirements on NOS go into effect next year.When a patient experie... Read more
Inhalation treatment:
Quick Quiz: Recognize 'Frequent Short-Gapped' Attribute Of 94640 To Aid Your Coding
If demo is inevitable, you may have to look beyond a diagnostic procedure.Does your physic... Read more
Quick Quiz: Recognize 'Frequent Short-Gapped' Attribute Of 94640 To Aid Your Coding
If demo is inevitable, you may have to look beyond a diagnostic procedure.Does your physic... Read more
CCI Edits 17.3:
32422, 71010 Bundle -- And More -- Improve Your Pulmonary Coding Options This Quarter
Immunotherapy code Q2043 does not concern pulmonologists, and should remain an oncology is... Read more
32422, 71010 Bundle -- And More -- Improve Your Pulmonary Coding Options This Quarter
Immunotherapy code Q2043 does not concern pulmonologists, and should remain an oncology is... Read more
Inhalation treatment answers:
3 Solutions Capture Precise Nebulizer Treatment Billing
Key: Bill drug separately with J code when coding for spirometry.E/M will usually comprise... Read more
3 Solutions Capture Precise Nebulizer Treatment Billing
Key: Bill drug separately with J code when coding for spirometry.E/M will usually comprise... Read more
Reader Question:
Spot Modifier 76 Applicability In Therapeutic Intervention
Question: A patient presents to the office with an allergic reaction to chlorine after swi... Read more
Spot Modifier 76 Applicability In Therapeutic Intervention
Question: A patient presents to the office with an allergic reaction to chlorine after swi... Read more
Reader Question:
ICD-9: Always Code Present Illness First
Question: The physician notes state: condition -- aspiration pneumonia; patient has d... Read more
ICD-9: Always Code Present Illness First
Question: The physician notes state: condition -- aspiration pneumonia; patient has d... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Moderate Sedation: Don't Stray From Services Provided
Question: If a physician who administers conscious sedation while another physician perfor... Read more
Moderate Sedation: Don't Stray From Services Provided
Question: If a physician who administers conscious sedation while another physician perfor... Read more
Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Respiratory Therapy Services:
Factor 4 Tips Into Your Pulmonary Rehab Service Coding Process
Limitation: G0424 requires monitored exercise, and an hour's therapy of up to two sessions... Read more
Factor 4 Tips Into Your Pulmonary Rehab Service Coding Process
Limitation: G0424 requires monitored exercise, and an hour's therapy of up to two sessions... Read more
ICD-10:
Reclassify 491.20 Under An Unspecified Code
Find out the difference between J44.1 and J44.9.Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two t... Read more
Reclassify 491.20 Under An Unspecified Code
Find out the difference between J44.1 and J44.9.Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two t... Read more
Modifiers:
Distinguish Between Modifiers 51, 59's 'Multiple' and 'Distinct' Descriptors
Find out which modifier Medicare prefers you not use. Many coders often find themselves in... Read more
Distinguish Between Modifiers 51, 59's 'Multiple' and 'Distinct' Descriptors
Find out which modifier Medicare prefers you not use. Many coders often find themselves in... Read more
Evaluation and Management:
You Can Get Paid Using Established Patient Phone Consultation Codes
Earn as much as $25.48 for phone calls not part of a face-to-face visit.Physicians and the... Read more
You Can Get Paid Using Established Patient Phone Consultation Codes
Earn as much as $25.48 for phone calls not part of a face-to-face visit.Physicians and the... Read more
Reader Question:
Take Note Of The Reason For The Admission
Question: A patient with myasthenia gravis with acute exacerbation is admitted to the hosp... Read more
Take Note Of The Reason For The Admission
Question: A patient with myasthenia gravis with acute exacerbation is admitted to the hosp... Read more
Reader Question:
Consider Atelectasis On Chest Xrays Abnormal Finding
Question: Coding Clinic, fourth quarter 1990, page 25, states that postoperative atelectas... Read more
Consider Atelectasis On Chest Xrays Abnormal Finding
Question: Coding Clinic, fourth quarter 1990, page 25, states that postoperative atelectas... Read more
Reader Question:
Feel Free To Bill 94016 With Bronchodilator Study Code
Question: Can I bill 94016 with a complete set of PFTs including 94060? I know of a few of... Read more
Feel Free To Bill 94016 With Bronchodilator Study Code
Question: Can I bill 94016 with a complete set of PFTs including 94060? I know of a few of... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Don't Make This Bronchitis, URI Mistake
Question: My pulmonologist put both bronchitis and upper respiratory infection as the diag... Read more
Don't Make This Bronchitis, URI Mistake
Question: My pulmonologist put both bronchitis and upper respiratory infection as the diag... Read more
Sleep Study:
Overlooking Polysomnography Documentation Requirements Could Mean a Claim Nightmare
CPTs 95808-95811 depict a sleep staging process with 3 basic components. Find out what the... Read more
Overlooking Polysomnography Documentation Requirements Could Mean a Claim Nightmare
CPTs 95808-95811 depict a sleep staging process with 3 basic components. Find out what the... Read more
CCI Edits 17.2:
What Role Do 94011-94012 Play On Complex Pulmonary Stress Test Coding?
Caution: Detach bronchoscopy codes 31626 and 31643 from each other.If your practice is big... Read more
What Role Do 94011-94012 Play On Complex Pulmonary Stress Test Coding?
Caution: Detach bronchoscopy codes 31626 and 31643 from each other.If your practice is big... Read more
Sleep Study Defined
Sleep studies are tests that watch what happens to a patient's body during sleep, and try ... Read more
Sleep studies are tests that watch what happens to a patient's body during sleep, and try ... Read more
Modifier:
Modifiers 58 vs. 78: Secure Reimbursement For Return-to-OR Services
Unmask the modifier to use when describing treatment for complication.Global period modifi... Read more
Modifiers 58 vs. 78: Secure Reimbursement For Return-to-OR Services
Unmask the modifier to use when describing treatment for complication.Global period modifi... Read more
Reader Question:
Pneumonia Diagnosis Coding: Never Leave Your Medical Language Vague
Question: My pulmonologist documented "multilobar pneumonia." What ICD-9 code should I rep... Read more
Pneumonia Diagnosis Coding: Never Leave Your Medical Language Vague
Question: My pulmonologist documented "multilobar pneumonia." What ICD-9 code should I rep... Read more
Reader Question:
Determine Presence of Acute Respiratory Failure Before Coding 799.02
Question: How should I code hypoxia in COPD?Hawaii SubscriberAnswer: Hypoxia is the defici... Read more
Determine Presence of Acute Respiratory Failure Before Coding 799.02
Question: How should I code hypoxia in COPD?Hawaii SubscriberAnswer: Hypoxia is the defici... Read more
Reader Question:
770.87 vs. 770.89: Go For The More Precise Code
Question: An infant patient stopped breathing at four minutes of age and had to be resusci... Read more
770.87 vs. 770.89: Go For The More Precise Code
Question: An infant patient stopped breathing at four minutes of age and had to be resusci... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Use Modifer 59 To Separate 94640 and 94664
Question: When an established patient with emphysema presents complaining of shortness of ... Read more
Use Modifer 59 To Separate 94640 and 94664
Question: When an established patient with emphysema presents complaining of shortness of ... Read more
Imaging Study:
78580, 78586-78594: Soak Up The Language of VQ Study
Look for clues in the method used: injection or inhalation.When your pulmonologist orders ... Read more
78580, 78586-78594: Soak Up The Language of VQ Study
Look for clues in the method used: injection or inhalation.When your pulmonologist orders ... Read more
ICD-10:
I Code Replaces 415.12 In 2013
Don't forget to code first underlying infection.Pulmonary embolism is a sudden blockage in... Read more
I Code Replaces 415.12 In 2013
Don't forget to code first underlying infection.Pulmonary embolism is a sudden blockage in... Read more
Evaluation and Management:
Unique Services Direct Your Concurrent Care Coding
How would you bill two physicians who see the same patient on a given day?Coding concurren... Read more
Unique Services Direct Your Concurrent Care Coding
How would you bill two physicians who see the same patient on a given day?Coding concurren... Read more
Documentation:
Open Physician-Coder Communication Does The Trick
Be aggressive with your procedure/diagnosis queries for the sake of clarity.In diagnosis c... Read more
Open Physician-Coder Communication Does The Trick
Be aggressive with your procedure/diagnosis queries for the sake of clarity.In diagnosis c... Read more
Reader Question:
Account Circumferential Collapse With 519.19
Question: Any suggestions for an ICD-9 code on "circumferential airway collapse"?Connectic... Read more
Account Circumferential Collapse With 519.19
Question: Any suggestions for an ICD-9 code on "circumferential airway collapse"?Connectic... Read more
Reader Question:
How Do You Bill A Continuous Nebulizer Treatment?
Question: A 30-year-old woman presents to an outpatient office for a history of asthma and... Read more
How Do You Bill A Continuous Nebulizer Treatment?
Question: A 30-year-old woman presents to an outpatient office for a history of asthma and... Read more
Reader Question:
Office Visit Oxygen Therapy Is Part of E/M
Question: Can we bill for oxygen therapy given to patients in the office during an E/M ser... Read more
Office Visit Oxygen Therapy Is Part of E/M
Question: Can we bill for oxygen therapy given to patients in the office during an E/M ser... Read more
Reader Question:
Bill Unlisted Procedure For MIP and MEP
Question: How should I bill MIPs (maximum inspiratory pressures) or MEPs (maximum expirato... Read more
Bill Unlisted Procedure For MIP and MEP
Question: How should I bill MIPs (maximum inspiratory pressures) or MEPs (maximum expirato... Read more
Reader Question:
Don't 'Overcode' Your Pulmonologist's Service
Question: An 86-year-old male with a background of pulmonary fibrosis and asthma was admit... Read more
Don't 'Overcode' Your Pulmonologist's Service
Question: An 86-year-old male with a background of pulmonary fibrosis and asthma was admit... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Look For Hints Of COPD In Documentation
Question: What are the factors that determine an initial diagnosis of COPD?Florida Subscri... Read more
Look For Hints Of COPD In Documentation
Question: What are the factors that determine an initial diagnosis of COPD?Florida Subscri... Read more
Consultation and Referral:
Recoil From 3 Myths Obscuring Sarcoidosis Coding
What's ECG got to do with it?Knowing how to code a referral for patients with sarcoidosis ... Read more
Recoil From 3 Myths Obscuring Sarcoidosis Coding
What's ECG got to do with it?Knowing how to code a referral for patients with sarcoidosis ... Read more
ICD-10:
D86.9: Use Manual As Guide For More Efficient Coding
What diagnosis can you list as secondary to sarcoidosis?Sarcoidosis -- cause unknown&... Read more
D86.9: Use Manual As Guide For More Efficient Coding
What diagnosis can you list as secondary to sarcoidosis?Sarcoidosis -- cause unknown&... Read more
Diagnosis Coding:
997.31: VAP Diagnosis Do Not Happen In A Blink
Advise: Consider alternate diagnoses until the patient's condition is accurate.Coding vent... Read more
997.31: VAP Diagnosis Do Not Happen In A Blink
Advise: Consider alternate diagnoses until the patient's condition is accurate.Coding vent... Read more
Documentation:
Physician's Signature Remains an Essential Part of EMRs
Careful: CMS recognizes electronic and handwritten signatures under certain criteria.If yo... Read more
Physician's Signature Remains an Essential Part of EMRs
Careful: CMS recognizes electronic and handwritten signatures under certain criteria.If yo... Read more
Reader Question:
31630-31645: Appraise Therapeutic Bronchoscopy Codes
Question: What are the most common therapeutic bronchoscopy codes?California SubscriberAns... Read more
31630-31645: Appraise Therapeutic Bronchoscopy Codes
Question: What are the most common therapeutic bronchoscopy codes?California SubscriberAns... Read more
Reader Question:
Primary and Add-On Codes Always Go Hand-in-Hand
Question: I'm new to coding, and I still don't get add-on codes. What is their main functi... Read more
Primary and Add-On Codes Always Go Hand-in-Hand
Question: I'm new to coding, and I still don't get add-on codes. What is their main functi... Read more
Reader Question:
Spot The Dot Within A Circle For Codes With Moderate Sedation
Question: How does moderate sedation work in pulmonology?New Mexico SubscriberAnswer: If y... Read more
Spot The Dot Within A Circle For Codes With Moderate Sedation
Question: How does moderate sedation work in pulmonology?New Mexico SubscriberAnswer: If y... Read more
Reader Question:
Check Fluoroscopic Guidance For 31628
Question: The pulmonologist sees a patient with acute respiratory failure, and decides to ... Read more
Check Fluoroscopic Guidance For 31628
Question: The pulmonologist sees a patient with acute respiratory failure, and decides to ... Read more
Reader Question:
Ensure Finality Before Reporting 518.82 For ARDS
Question: What is adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)? How should we code it?Alaska... Read more
Ensure Finality Before Reporting 518.82 For ARDS
Question: What is adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)? How should we code it?Alaska... Read more
You Be the Coder:
31899: Spot Parallelism With 31641 -- Although Not Quite
Question: I know that you need to use the unlisted CPT® code 31899 to describe bronc... Read more
31899: Spot Parallelism With 31641 -- Although Not Quite
Question: I know that you need to use the unlisted CPT® code 31899 to describe bronc... Read more
Case study:
E/M + Bronchoscopy + PFT: Unlock the Secrets to Signs and Symptoms Coding
Keep your CCI edits in mind for PFT bundles. When a patient presents with common respi... Read more
E/M + Bronchoscopy + PFT: Unlock the Secrets to Signs and Symptoms Coding
Keep your CCI edits in mind for PFT bundles. When a patient presents with common respi... Read more
ICD-10:
Observe 495.1's Transformation To J67.1 In 2013
The bagassosis condition comes with a number of signs and symptoms. Hypersensitivity p... Read more
Observe 495.1's Transformation To J67.1 In 2013
The bagassosis condition comes with a number of signs and symptoms. Hypersensitivity p... Read more
Diagnosis Coding:
Deem Time Essential for 493.02 Treatment Services
Learn when prolonged services should not apply.Reporting your pulmonologist's asthma attac... Read more
Deem Time Essential for 493.02 Treatment Services
Learn when prolonged services should not apply.Reporting your pulmonologist's asthma attac... Read more
Modifier:
Modifier 57 Remains Handy Post Removal of Consult Codes
Take a hint from a CPT®'s global period when choosing between modifiers 25 or 57.Con... Read more
Modifier 57 Remains Handy Post Removal of Consult Codes
Take a hint from a CPT®'s global period when choosing between modifiers 25 or 57.Con... Read more
Reader Question:
Tell 518.5 From 518.81
Question: When coding for acute respiratory failure, what is the difference between ICD-9 ... Read more
Tell 518.5 From 518.81
Question: When coding for acute respiratory failure, what is the difference between ICD-9 ... Read more
Reader Question:
E0483: Serve Your Vest Therapy Coding Well
Question: How should I report a therapy using The Vest® airway clearance system? A t... Read more
E0483: Serve Your Vest Therapy Coding Well
Question: How should I report a therapy using The Vest® airway clearance system? A t... Read more
Reader Question:
Relieve Racemic Epinephrine Worries by Reporting 94640, 94664
Question: What code is used for racemic epinephrine inhalation?Colorado SubscriberAnswer: ... Read more
Relieve Racemic Epinephrine Worries by Reporting 94640, 94664
Question: What code is used for racemic epinephrine inhalation?Colorado SubscriberAnswer: ... Read more
Reader Question:
CPT® Limits 31725 To Just 'Fiberoptic Bronchoscope'
Question: What are the clues to properly coding 31725? I usually link candidiasis of lung ... Read more
CPT® Limits 31725 To Just 'Fiberoptic Bronchoscope'
Question: What are the clues to properly coding 31725? I usually link candidiasis of lung ... Read more
Reader Question:
Take Precedence Into Consideration When Coding 94010, 94070
Question:My physician wants me to bill separately for a spirogram and methacholine test pe... Read more
Take Precedence Into Consideration When Coding 94010, 94070
Question:My physician wants me to bill separately for a spirogram and methacholine test pe... Read more
Reader Question:
Make Modifier 76 Handy In Moderate Exacerbation Cases
Question: Can you give me an example of when modifier 76 should be used in pulmonology pra... Read more
Make Modifier 76 Handy In Moderate Exacerbation Cases
Question: Can you give me an example of when modifier 76 should be used in pulmonology pra... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Get Through With Your PST Billing
Question: Who should have pulmonary stress testing? What are the requisites to conduct thi... Read more
Get Through With Your PST Billing
Question: Who should have pulmonary stress testing? What are the requisites to conduct thi... Read more
Allergy Coding:
3 Common Blunders Put Your EAA Coding Skills To The Test
Careful: 94375 is hot on bundles.Combat these three common mistakes in reporting extrinsic... Read more
3 Common Blunders Put Your EAA Coding Skills To The Test
Careful: 94375 is hot on bundles.Combat these three common mistakes in reporting extrinsic... Read more
ICD-10:
J67.2 Takes Over Bird-fancier's Lung Code in 2013
Mind patient's symptoms until you get a definite diagnosis.Bird-fancier's lung is a type o... Read more
J67.2 Takes Over Bird-fancier's Lung Code in 2013
Mind patient's symptoms until you get a definite diagnosis.Bird-fancier's lung is a type o... Read more
ICD-9 Coding:
Flu, BMI, Jaw Pain Diagnosis Codes Become More Straightforward
Consider: Where do BMI codes fare in pulmonology? Efficient billing is not just about g... Read more
Flu, BMI, Jaw Pain Diagnosis Codes Become More Straightforward
Consider: Where do BMI codes fare in pulmonology? Efficient billing is not just about g... Read more
Modifier:
Crash 3 Myths That Block Your Understanding Of Modifier 22
Safe move: Check with payers on differing coverage policies.If you overuse modifier 22 (In... Read more
Crash 3 Myths That Block Your Understanding Of Modifier 22
Safe move: Check with payers on differing coverage policies.If you overuse modifier 22 (In... Read more
Reader Questions:
Established Plan Of Care Ensures Incident-To Physician Claim
Question:The nurse administered a 300 mg Xolair injection to an established patient in a p... Read more
Established Plan Of Care Ensures Incident-To Physician Claim
Question:The nurse administered a 300 mg Xolair injection to an established patient in a p... Read more
Reader Questions:
Secure A 21 or 22 POS For PFT Interpretation Service
Question:What place of service code would you use for interpretation of an inpatient or ou... Read more
Secure A 21 or 22 POS For PFT Interpretation Service
Question:What place of service code would you use for interpretation of an inpatient or ou... Read more
Reader Questions:
Choose POS With Caution Under "Observation Status"
Question:As follow-up to the previous question, our office also gets a lot of denials for ... Read more
Choose POS With Caution Under "Observation Status"
Question:As follow-up to the previous question, our office also gets a lot of denials for ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Placing Patient on O2 = Routine Service
Question:I've found out we have been charging O2 set up/installation for inpatient with th... Read more
Placing Patient on O2 = Routine Service
Question:I've found out we have been charging O2 set up/installation for inpatient with th... Read more
Reader Questions:
Don't Be Too Hard On Your Modifier 25 Use
Question:A physician in our clinic said you do not need different diagnosis codes to use m... Read more
Don't Be Too Hard On Your Modifier 25 Use
Question:A physician in our clinic said you do not need different diagnosis codes to use m... Read more
Reader Questions:
Expect To Profit Over $1k For 32652
Question:What is the CPT code for total pulmonary decortication?California SubscriberAnswe... Read more
Expect To Profit Over $1k For 32652
Question:What is the CPT code for total pulmonary decortication?California SubscriberAnswe... Read more
Reader Questions:
Does 31627 Fit ENB Description?
Question:What CPT should I report for the electromagnetic bronchoscopy (ENB) treatment?Iow... Read more
Does 31627 Fit ENB Description?
Question:What CPT should I report for the electromagnetic bronchoscopy (ENB) treatment?Iow... Read more
Reader Questions:
Get Your CPT In Synch With Your Setting
Question:My doctor said he performed a diagnostic laryngoscopy with a tracheoscopy on an a... Read more
Get Your CPT In Synch With Your Setting
Question:My doctor said he performed a diagnostic laryngoscopy with a tracheoscopy on an a... Read more
You Be the Coder:
76942 Matches Ultrasound Guidance for Thoracentesis
Question:How would you code an ultrasound guided thoracentesis?New Hampshire SubscriberAns... Read more
76942 Matches Ultrasound Guidance for Thoracentesis
Question:How would you code an ultrasound guided thoracentesis?New Hampshire SubscriberAns... Read more
Pulmonary Function Test:
Make Best Use of PFT Code Combos And Get As Much As $230
Caveat: Don't mix 94010 and 94060, or you'll be in trouble.If you think dealing with pulmo... Read more
Make Best Use of PFT Code Combos And Get As Much As $230
Caveat: Don't mix 94010 and 94060, or you'll be in trouble.If you think dealing with pulmo... Read more
ICD-10:
ICD-10 Retains Descriptor for 786.05
Consider: An underlying disorder could be causing this symptom.When a physician notes a pa... Read more
ICD-10 Retains Descriptor for 786.05
Consider: An underlying disorder could be causing this symptom.When a physician notes a pa... Read more
Diagnosis Coding:
Prevail From The Challenges of Billing Histoplasmosis
Overlooking symptoms could earn you $223 or nothing.Most patients who are infected with hi... Read more
Prevail From The Challenges of Billing Histoplasmosis
Overlooking symptoms could earn you $223 or nothing.Most patients who are infected with hi... Read more
Documentation:
E/M Elements: Improve Efficiencies With the Aid of Ancillary Staff
Every doctor should own up to a patient's history of present illness.Ancillary staff (i.e.... Read more
E/M Elements: Improve Efficiencies With the Aid of Ancillary Staff
Every doctor should own up to a patient's history of present illness.Ancillary staff (i.e.... Read more
Reader Questions:
Don't Overdo Common Colds
Question: Our pulmonologist saw a new patient and diagnosed her with "colds." In the medic... Read more
Don't Overdo Common Colds
Question: Our pulmonologist saw a new patient and diagnosed her with "colds." In the medic... Read more
Reader Questions:
No Injection Code For 86580
Question: I'm not sure whether to use an E/M code or 86580 for tuberculosis skin tests. Ca... Read more
No Injection Code For 86580
Question: I'm not sure whether to use an E/M code or 86580 for tuberculosis skin tests. Ca... Read more
Reader Questions:
E/M Code Goes With Routine Trace Tube Change
Question: Does anyone know if we can charge for trach decannulation? If so, what is the CP... Read more
E/M Code Goes With Routine Trace Tube Change
Question: Does anyone know if we can charge for trach decannulation? If so, what is the CP... Read more
Reader Questions:
Reserve 465.9 For URI Without Specific Site
Question: A patient underwent two-view chest x-ray after going to the pulmonologist with c... Read more
Reserve 465.9 For URI Without Specific Site
Question: A patient underwent two-view chest x-ray after going to the pulmonologist with c... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Spot 5 Factors In Physician's Notes When Coding COPD
Question: I am coding for a pulmonologist who made his initial diagnosis for a patient's C... Read more
Spot 5 Factors In Physician's Notes When Coding COPD
Question: I am coding for a pulmonologist who made his initial diagnosis for a patient's C... Read more
Flu Vaccination Service:
Stick It Out With G0008 For Medicare Flu Shot Claims
What's More: Intramuscular and intranasal vaccines each get separate code sets.Influenza s... Read more
Stick It Out With G0008 For Medicare Flu Shot Claims
What's More: Intramuscular and intranasal vaccines each get separate code sets.Influenza s... Read more
ICD-10:
ICD-10 Replaces V04.81 With Same-Theme Z Code
You have two years left to prepare for the diagnosis coding shift.When a patient presents ... Read more
ICD-10 Replaces V04.81 With Same-Theme Z Code
You have two years left to prepare for the diagnosis coding shift.When a patient presents ... Read more
Diagnosis Coding:
480-486: Careful Pneumonia Coding Keeps Provider-Payer Relationship Healthy
See why you should wait for physician's final diagnosis before settling for a code.Pneumon... Read more
480-486: Careful Pneumonia Coding Keeps Provider-Payer Relationship Healthy
See why you should wait for physician's final diagnosis before settling for a code.Pneumon... Read more
Evaluation and Management:
Complete A Comprehensive Consultation To Optimize Reimbursement
Find out the importance of documenting pertinent positive/negative responses.Level-four an... Read more
Complete A Comprehensive Consultation To Optimize Reimbursement
Find out the importance of documenting pertinent positive/negative responses.Level-four an... Read more
Reader Questions:
"Separate Sessions" Define Modifier 59's Limitation
Question: According to coding edits 94762 (continuous overnight monitoring) is considered ... Read more
"Separate Sessions" Define Modifier 59's Limitation
Question: According to coding edits 94762 (continuous overnight monitoring) is considered ... Read more
Reader Questions:
82800-82810: No Professional Component Applies
Question: Can I bill for a professional component when a pulmonologist orders an arterial ... Read more
82800-82810: No Professional Component Applies
Question: Can I bill for a professional component when a pulmonologist orders an arterial ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Flu Vaccine Combo Now In Place
Question: I heard H1N1 and flu vaccines are combined this year. We were using 90663 for H1... Read more
Flu Vaccine Combo Now In Place
Question: I heard H1N1 and flu vaccines are combined this year. We were using 90663 for H1... Read more
Reader Questions:
Get the Lowdown on 94011-94013
Question: Can you clarify the three new codes (94011-94013) that were added in 2010 for in... Read more
Get the Lowdown on 94011-94013
Question: Can you clarify the three new codes (94011-94013) that were added in 2010 for in... Read more
You Be the Coder :
Be Careful Unbreaking Ties Between 93720, PFT
Question: Can I bill Medicare for code 93720 in addition to the other PFT codes?Answer: Ca... Read more
Be Careful Unbreaking Ties Between 93720, PFT
Question: Can I bill Medicare for code 93720 in addition to the other PFT codes?Answer: Ca... Read more
CCI Edits:
CCI Edits 17.0: Newest Edits Clarify Debuting CPT 2011 Procedures
Include category III ECG procedures in new home sleep study type III and IV services.The l... Read more
CCI Edits 17.0: Newest Edits Clarify Debuting CPT 2011 Procedures
Include category III ECG procedures in new home sleep study type III and IV services.The l... Read more
ICD-10:
Mirror Descriptor for ICD-10 Home Sleep Study Code
Quick fact: ICD-10 codes can be expanded to accommodate additions, should it be necessary.... Read more
Mirror Descriptor for ICD-10 Home Sleep Study Code
Quick fact: ICD-10 codes can be expanded to accommodate additions, should it be necessary.... Read more
Coding Quiz:
Coding Quiz: Reacquaint With Recent Tumor, Effusion Switches
No longer should you report an umbrella code for malignant lung/bronchial tumors.If you're... Read more
Coding Quiz: Reacquaint With Recent Tumor, Effusion Switches
No longer should you report an umbrella code for malignant lung/bronchial tumors.If you're... Read more
Modifier:
Modifier 62 Eases Your Multi-Provider Coding Dilemma
Your CPT should jive on both surgeons' op notes, or else bid $4k goodbye.When you come fac... Read more
Modifier 62 Eases Your Multi-Provider Coding Dilemma
Your CPT should jive on both surgeons' op notes, or else bid $4k goodbye.When you come fac... Read more
Coding Quiz Solutions:
Coding Quiz Answers: Specificity Ranks on Top of Tumor, Effusion Codes
Find out why coding for primary source of tumor is as important as coding for the tumor it... Read more
Coding Quiz Answers: Specificity Ranks on Top of Tumor, Effusion Codes
Find out why coding for primary source of tumor is as important as coding for the tumor it... Read more
Reader Questions:
Reserve 94664 for Education
Question: In relation to the first question, in what situation should we be reporting 9466... Read more
Reserve 94664 for Education
Question: In relation to the first question, in what situation should we be reporting 9466... Read more
Reader Questions:
Aerosol and Gaseous Tests Set Apart
Question: What's the difference between aerosol and gaseous ventilation?Answer: Both aeros... Read more
Aerosol and Gaseous Tests Set Apart
Question: What's the difference between aerosol and gaseous ventilation?Answer: Both aeros... Read more
Reader Questions:
787.22 Is For Dysphagia In Oropharyngeal Phase
Question: My pulmonologist diagnosed a patient with nasopharyngeal carcinoma status post r... Read more
787.22 Is For Dysphagia In Oropharyngeal Phase
Question: My pulmonologist diagnosed a patient with nasopharyngeal carcinoma status post r... Read more
Reader Questions:
Don't Lose Lower Respiratory Infection In Translation
Question: What is the ICD-9 for lower respiratory infection?Answer: No "catchall" ICD-9 co... Read more
Don't Lose Lower Respiratory Infection In Translation
Question: What is the ICD-9 for lower respiratory infection?Answer: No "catchall" ICD-9 co... Read more
Reader Questions:
Walking Oximetry vs. 6-Minute Walk
Question: Medicare never pays us for walking oximetry. For instance, if we have a visit an... Read more
Walking Oximetry vs. 6-Minute Walk
Question: Medicare never pays us for walking oximetry. For instance, if we have a visit an... Read more
Reader Questions:
Don't Forget: 31622 Includes Cell Washing
Question: My pulmonologist performed a bronchoscopy, wash, brush, and multiple tracheal as... Read more
Don't Forget: 31622 Includes Cell Washing
Question: My pulmonologist performed a bronchoscopy, wash, brush, and multiple tracheal as... Read more
You Be the Coder:
94640 Goes With Intent To Treat Obstruction
Question: An established patient with emphysema presents the office complaining of shortne... Read more
94640 Goes With Intent To Treat Obstruction
Question: An established patient with emphysema presents the office complaining of shortne... Read more