Medicare Compliance & Reimbursement

Here's why listing V codes first is OK in some situations -- but you'll still need to watch your documentation. If you fear a denial every time you choose an ICD-9 code for a "normal" study, you're in luck with pre-op evaluations. Get the scoop by learning the rule and applying it to the sample case below. Make Pre-Op Dx Easy as 1-2-3 Rule: In 2001, Medicare issued guidelines for coding pre-op exams (CMS transmittal 1719, www.cms.hhs.gov/transmittals/downloads/R1719B3.pdf): 1. Report the pre-op V code first. "The ICD-9 code that appears in the line item of a preoperative examination or diagnostic test must be the code for the appropriate preoperative examination (e.g., V72.81 through V72.84)." 2. Then include the diagnosis that prompted surgery and the condition that prompted the pre-op evaluation, if your physician notes one. 3. Follow these with other diagnoses and conditions affecting the patient. Benefit: The transmittal states that [...]