Wiki Reimbursement for Translators

[dalannac]

I was wondering if there is a code or some way to be reimbursed for our cost of having a translator, specifically a sign language translator, for patients who require one. The cost of the translator is more than the reimbursement we receive for the office visit.

 

[Pam Warren]

There is no code to bill for a translator. For a sign language translator, you are required by the terms of the Americans with Disabilities act to provide this service, at no charge to the patient (or their insurance). Consider this a cost of doing business.

Depending on the challenges in using a translator for a patient for whom your provider cannot communicate in their native language, sometimes you can justify an additional data point on an E&M visit, but the documentation must support difficulty with obtaining information due to the use of a translator. Otherwise, it's unbillable as a separately reportable service.

 

[syllingk]

T1013, but not all insurances will reimburse for it.

 

[dalannac]

Thank you for the help.