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Radiology Coding Alert

READER QUESTIONS:

Turn to Category III for Calcium Scoring

Published on Sun May 13, 2007

Question: What code should I use for calcium scoring by itself?


Indiana Subscriber

Answer: Report 0144T (Computed tomography, heart, without contrast material, including image postprocessing and quantitative evaluation of coronary calcium).

Pay attention: The descriptor includes image postprocessing, so don't report 3D rendering codes 76376-73677 (3D rendering with interpretation and reporting of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, or other tomographic modality ...).

Although payers may not reimburse you for 0144T in the physician setting, CPT guidelines require you to report a Category III code when available rather than a Category I unlisted-procedure code.

Reporting a Category III code also helps payers track how often physicians perform the procedure, which could influence future coverage determinations.

Note: You may also find 0144T the most appropriate code when the physician cancels the remainder of an exam because of heavy calcification. The answers for You Be the Coder and Reader Questions were reviewed by Jackie Miller, RHIA, CPC, senior consultant with Coding Strategies Inc. in Powder Springs, Ga.
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