Anesthesia Coding Alert

Focus on correct Dx, CCI edits to set your practice on the path to error-free claims. You have a head start on understanding the ins and outs of transforaminal epidurals, and how to code them properly. But there's more to know about these procedures in order to capture your pain management provider's deserved reimbursement and keep the Office of Inspector General (OIG) from looking your way. In last month's Anesthesia and Pain Management Coding Alert, you learned about transforaminal epidurals by determining what the procedure is, which four codes to pick from, the importance of levels, whether fluoroscopy enters the equation, and, finally, the crucial task of checking with your local carriers (see "Prepare for OIG Scrutiny of Transforaminal Epidurals in 5 Steps," Vol. 12, No. 1). Now take these last few steps to ensure you're coding right every time. 4. Match Dx for Medical Necessity Many payers, including Medicare, [...]