Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

To Do:

Add Q2023 to Medicare Payable List

But check the status indicator for this July 1 code.

Medicare's July 2009 HCPCS update includes a new code for Xyntha:

• Q2023 -- Injection, factor VIII (antihemophilic factor, recombinant) (Xyntha), per i.u. Xyntha temporarily raises factor VIII levels in the blood to aid clotting for patients with hemophilia.

The codes' coverage indicator is "E," which means, "Excluded from physician fee schedule by regulation."

Codes with status "E" don't have RVUs, but when they're covered, the carrier/contractor pays them under reasonable charge procedures.

Transmittal 1752, released June 5, which announces the change, indicates Q2023 is payable for services on or after July 1 (www.cms.hhs.gov/Transmittals/downloads/R1752CP.pdf).