Pulmonology Coding Alert

Subsequent IV push coding is the biggest change for pulmonology practices. If you are intimidated by wading through the 3,500 new code pairs that the Correct Coding Initiatives just introduced, you are not alone. Eli helps you cut to the chase with what pulmonology coders need to know about the CCI 15.2 edits, effective July 1. In a nutshell: The CCI edits are pairs of procedure codes with prohibited or limited reimbursement when reported together for the same patient on the same day by the same provider, according to Frank Cohen, MPA, senior analyst with MIT Solutions Inc. in Clearwater, Fla., in his June 30, 2009, webinar "NCCI Version 15.2 Update." Watch out: Continued violation of CCI edits or inappropriate modifier use can increase your chances of auditor review, particularly under RACs (recovery audit contractors), says Cohen. So toe the line, and refer to the date of service -- not the [...]