Radiology Coding Alert

Radiology coders need the dexterity of jugglers to stay current with all the consolidated-billing balls. If your practice missed recent additions and deletions to the code file, note these pertinent changes made late in 2002:   76075 Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), bone density study, one or more sites; axial skeleton (e.g., hips, pelvis, spine)     76977 Ultrasound bone density measurement and interpretation, peripheral site(s), any method     78890 Generation of automated data: interactive process involving nuclear physician and/or allied health professional personnel; simple manipulations and interpretation, not to exceed 30 minutes     78891 ... complex manipulations and interpretation, exceeding 30 minutes.   The professional component of these services is not subject to skilled nursing facility (SNF) consolidated billing and will be considered for payment by the Part B Medicare carrier for Medicare beneficiaries in a SNF Part A stay. Always submit these codes with modifier -26. Note: For the latest update on HCPCS Codes used in consolidated billing, see CMS' Nov. 8, 2002, program memorandum, A-02-118, at http://cms.hhs.gov/ manuals/memos/comm_date_dsc.asp.