Radiology Coding Alert
Confirm The Type of Views Before Choosing CPT® Codes
Question: The report from the radiologist lists that they performed 3 views during a chest X-ray for a patient presenting symptoms of a cough with blood lasting for several days. Can I use code 71101 to document the procedure? Pennsylvania Subscriber Answer: To answer this question, you’ll need more information to determine the correct CPT® code. You’ve indicated the report calls out three views, but X-rays also require the types of views rather than just the number. Code 71101 (Radiologic examination, ribs, unilateral; including posteroanterior chest, minimum of 3 views) indicates three views, but the descriptor specifies that it covers the ribs and a posteroanterior view of the chest. If the documentation calls out bilateral views of the ribs, then 71110 (…, bilateral; 3 views) would be the correct code for the report. You should use code 71047 (Radiologic examination, chest; 3 views) for views of the chest only. Recheck the report or reach out to the radiologist to determine which types of views were captured during the procedure.
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