Wiki Ob ultrasound - I do coding for a radiology center

[tristate]

I do coding for a radiology center. When we get the order from the doctor for an OB ultrasound for "check fetal growth" (and the radiologist's report says everything is normal) I use code V28.3. Some insurances are denying it for not medically necessary; however, they will pay for V28.81. I thought V28.81 was to check the baby's gender. Isn't "check fetal growth" just routine? Should I be using V28.81? Thanks!!

 

[areeder]

As per the ICD-9 description, V28.81 is Encounter for fetal anatomical survey, which would mean more than just a gender check. The decription for V28.3 is Encounter for routine screening for malformation using ultrasonics.
Hope this helps.