Advanced Search

Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Malformation on One Side, Rule Out on the Other

Published on Sat Sep 01, 2001

Question: What diagnosis code should I use for audiology tests? The notes read as follows:

Left pinna malformation with atretic meatus exists. We wish to rule out right hearing loss due to the problem with the left. Impression: 1) Normal right conductive mechanisms 2) Right acoustic emission and behavioral responses consistent with that seen in normal hearing children.
 
Oregon Subscriber  
Answer: Audiology tests are always bilateral.  Therefore, the diagnosis for the problem on the left side may be used, which is 744.29 (other specified anomaly of ear, including prominence of auricle and ridge ear).
 
If the ear with the malformation is not tested (which is highly unlikely), modifier -52 (reduced services) probably should be attached to the appropriate audiology CPT code, When one side has a hearing problem, it is very common for the other side to be tested.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Otolaryngology Coding Alert

View All