Urology Coding Alert

Stop separately reporting programming or you'll face denials.Historically, getting paid for posterior tibial neurostimulator (PTNS) services have been a major challenge for urology practices. If your urologist performs this treatment, you likelyrejoiced when a new Category I code became active on Jan. 1, 2011. But is the new code helping bring in your deserved reimbursement? Find out how you should be coding PTNS therapy now, and if you can expect payment for this service.Get to Know the Updated CodingSince the beginning of this year, you have had 64566 (Posterior tibial neurostimulation percutaneous needle electrode, single treatment, including programming) to report PTNS. You should no longer be reporting 64555 (Percutaneous implantation of neurostimulator electrodes; peripheral nerve [excludes sacral nerve]) or 64999 (Unlisted procedure, nervous system).When you read the description of PTNS, it's hard to imagine that urologists would ever use this treatment. After all, the physician inserts a needle into the [...]