Pulmonology Coding Alert

Question: What CPT^® code should I use for a six-minute walk test for a patient who has been diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension?

Maine Subscriber

Answer: With the correct supporting documentation, most six-minute walk tests can be coded as 94620 (Pulmonary stress testing; simple [e.g., 6-minute walk test, prolonged exercise test for bronchospasm with pre- and post-spirometry and oximetry]). This is a test performed for pulmonary assessment. According to the CPT^® Assistant your documentation should contain blood pressure, heart rate, liter flow of supplemental oxygen, and oxygen saturation. Record each one of these parameters at rest, during exercise, and also during recovery. This code covers the physician’s analysis of data and interpretation of the test along with a written report.

Remember: A physician must directly supervise the technical portion of this test, which means that non-physician practitioners may not supervise the test. Direct supervision means that the physician is present in the office, readily approachable to supervise the test.