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Anesthesia Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Stick With Correct Code, Even if Non-covered

Published on Sat Aug 14, 2010

Question: Our Medicaid carrier included codes 64470-64476 on the 2009 physician fee schedule, but dropped them in 2010 as non-covered services. The latest schedule also does not include new codes 64490-64495. I have enough documentation to determine an acceptable E/M service level. Can I report and E/M code instead of the facet injection so our provider gets paid something? Montana Subscriber Answer: Coding guidelines direct you to code the service your physician provided and documented, whether you expect payment or not. Choose the appropriate code from 64490-64495 (Injection[s], diagnostic or therapeutic agent, paravertebral facet [zygapophyseal] joint [or nerves innervating that joint] with image guidance [fluoroscopy or CT]...) and submit to your carrier. Appeal any denials and exhaust all reimbursement efforts before adjusting the service and writing off the fee. Check related codes: Confirm whether the fee schedule includes 64622-64627 (Destruction by neurolytic agent, paravertebral facet joint nerve ...). Physicians often [...]
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