Pulmonology Coding Alert

Question: What is the code for the administration of Heliox therapy to a patient in the ICU? In what specific cases (diagnoses) is the procedure applicable?Arkansas SubscriberAnswer: You won't find any CPT code for HeO2 therapy. You could report this with an unlisted pulmonary service code (94799, Unlisted pulmonary service or procedure). Make sure your physician writes a detailed report, which you will need when the payer requests more information. Include a procedure description and fee on the claim. Most often, respiratory therapists will deliver this therapy in the hospital after a pulmonologist writes an order to administer it.Background: Pulmonologists use Helium/oxygen (He/O2) mixtures to help treat severe airflow obstruction seen in patients with acute decompensation of asthma (493.0x, 493.1x, 493.2x, 493.9x), obstructive bronchitis (491.2x) and acute bronchitis (466.0). The He/O2 mixtures are usually 80/20 or 70/30, but could have higher O2 content. The administration, which can be delivered through [...]