Pulmonology Coding Alert

Learn why you need to strike the 97000 series off your list.As of Jan. 1, legislation for national and local pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) coverage went into effect. Were you ready? What you don't know about PR coding may hurt your bottom line.Familiarize yourself with five PR essentials and spell the difference between denial and deserved dollars.1. Learn When to Use New G CodeCMS has published the final rule for pulmonary rehab, which uses a new HCPCS code G0424 (Pulmonary rehabilitation, including exercise [includes monitoring], one hour, per session, up to 2 sessions per day) for PR coverage. Use G0424 for all PR services provided in the physician's office and in outpatient hospital settings.Example: A patient, who's diagnosed with COPD (491.20, Obstructive chronic bronchitis without exacerbation), presents to your practice for PR and receives an initial office assessment, including aerobic exercise (sixminute walk) for one hour. A physician and respiratory therapist [...]