Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

Question: How should I code a blood draw from an implanted catheter or Hickman catheter that can only be done in a physician's office?

New Mexico Subscriber
Answer: In 2001, CPT introduced 36540 (collection of blood specimen from a partially or completely implantable venous access device) to describe drawing blood from a catheter. Although Medicare is not reimbursing for this new code, many private payers pay at a level comparable to 36415 (routine venipuncture or finger/heel/ear stick for collection of specimen[s]). Medicare requires G0001 (routine venipuncture for collection of specimen[s]), which is specifically for specimen collection by venipuncture and does not include collection by capillary stick.
 
Answers to You Be The Coder and Reader Questions provided by Cindy Parman, CPC, CPC-H, principal and co-founder of Coding Strategies in Dallas, Ga; Margaret Hickey, MS, MSN, RN, OCN, CORLN, independent coding consultant based in New Orleans; Elaine Towle, CMPE, practice administrator for New Hampshire Oncology and Hematology in Hooksett, N.H.; and Lillie McAllister, CPC, president of Double-Diamond Enterprises, a coding and consulting firm in Conroe, Tex.