Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Question: Notes indicate our provider performed an evoked potential test. How should I code this encounter?

Kansas Subscriber

Answer: You’re not going to be able to choose a correct code with the information you listed; there’s just not enough there, as there are upward of 10 evoked potential test codes if you count reflex tests. You could, however, benefit from this breakdown of evoked potential test types. Then, maybe, you’ll be able to narrow down your code choice.

Group 1:

• 95925 (Short-latency somatosensory evoked potential study, stimulation of any/all peripheral nerves or skin sites, recording from the central nervous system; in upper limbs)
• 95926 (… in lower limbs)
• 95938 (… in upper and lower limbs)
• 95927 (… in the trunk or head)

Group 2:

• 95928 (Central motor evoked potential study (transcranial motor stimulation); upper limbs)
• 95929 (… lower limbs)
• 95939 (… in upper and lower limbs)

Group 3:

• 95930 (Visual evoked potential (VEP) checkerboard or flash testing, central nervous system except glaucoma, with interpretation and report)

Do this: Go back and check the notes against the descriptions listed above for the different tests. Then see if you can zero in on a code based on the notes. If this fails, do your best to contact the performing provider for more guidance.