Advanced Search

ED Coding and Reimbursement Alert

Reader Question:

Catheter Removal

Published on Sun Apr 01, 2001

Question: Would the removal of a subclavian Hickman catheter be included in the E/M level? The chart indicates a level three, but the ED physician did not place the catheter. The removal required a 2-cm incision, the catheter was removed without difficulty, and the closure was simple.

Cheryl Goodrich
Mountaineer Emergency Physicians
Morgantown, W.V.

Answer: Use the appropriate ED E/M code (99281-99285) to bill for the catheter removal because it is not a separately billable service. The E/M level would reflect the work of the ED staff in removing the catheter. In your particular case, the criteria for a level-three E/M have been met and it is the only billable option. The more difficult the removal, the higher the E/M code.
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

ED Coding and Reimbursement Alert

View All