Gastroenterology Coding Alert

G-codes are handy if the screening doesn't turn diagnostic. You know the deal: If your gastroenterologist performs colonoscopy screening on a patient, you must always link a "screening" diagnosis to the procedure, even if the physician discovers any abnormality in the process. In short, your physician's findings will dictate how you will tackle your colonoscopy coding. Here are some essential ideas on what to expect. 1. Put G Codes into Good Use for Screenings You have 2 G codes as an option when reporting colonoscopy screenings for Medicare-eligible patients: G0105 (Colorectal cancer screening;colonoscopy on individual at high risk) or G0121 (Colorectal cancer screening; colonoscopy on individual not meeting criteria for high risk). You should support G0105 for high-risk patients with selected diagnoses, including: V10.05 -- Personal history of malignant neoplasm; gastrointestinal tract; large intestine V10.06 -- Personal history of malignant neoplasm, rectum, rectosigmoid junction, and anus V12.72 -- Personal history of [...]