Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

Test yourself by choosing the proper codes and units for this encounter. Finding the proper codes -- even for well-documented visits -- can require some detective work. Take a look at the sample scenario and make your choices for the appropriate ICD-9-CM, HCPCS, and CPT® codes. Scenario: Documentation shows the patient presents for her first day of chemotherapy, aimed at treating stage III epithelial ovarian cancer (primary). The tracking form for the patient shows the following infusions: 0817-0833, dexamethasone sodium phosphate, 20 mg IV, in 50 mL NS 0834-0854, diphenhydramine, 50 mg IV, with ranitidine, 50 mg IV, in 50 mL NS 0924-1226, paclitaxel, 233.55 mg IV, in 500 mL NS. ICD-9-CM: Take It 1 Code at a Time The first-listed diagnosis code should be V58.11 (Encounter for antineoplastic chemotherapy). According to ICD-9-CM official guidelines, V58.11 must be the primary code when the visit is solely for chemotherapy (guidelines are available at [...]