Advanced Search

Anesthesia Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Can You Split Time with CRNA?

Published on Mon Mar 08, 2010

Question: My anesthesiologist started a case at 12:13 p.m. The certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) came in about 30 minutes later. The anesthesiologist was pulled away to supervise another case 20 minutes later (at 1:03 p.m.), so the CRNA finished the case at 1:20 with the attending physician. Since the CRNA was not present for the entire case, how should I report this? Indiana Subscriber Answer: Your question doesn't specify the patient's insurance or who employs the CRNA -- both key factors in determining the correct way to report this procedure. We'll assume your anesthesiologist and CRNA are employed by the same group. In this case, you would have to append modifier QZ (CRNA service: without medical direction by a physician) for the CRNA's services since the anesthesiologist was not directing her. Alternative: You could also use QX (CRNA service: with medical direction by a physician) for the CRNA and AD [...]
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Anesthesia Coding Alert

View All