Advanced Search

Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Propellant-Driven Inhaler Falls Under 94664

Published on Mon Feb 11, 2008

Question: Should I use 94664 for education/training with the Advair diskus? Our allergist says "no," but our pediatricians say "yes." Wisconsin Subscriber Answer: Code 94664's descriptor specifies "demonstration and/or evaluation of patient utilization of an aerosol generator, nebulizer, metered dose inhaler or IPPB device." Part of teaching the proper technique in using an inhaler (either propellant-driven [Advair Diskus] or dry powder) is to demonstrate and evaluate. "In this respect, the code would seem appropriate to use for demonstration and evaluation," writes Gary N. Gross, MD, executive vice president of the Joint Council of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology in an e-mail response. "Unfortunately, not all payers will pay for this code," Gross adds. If practices abuse 94664, probably fewer payers will pay. To support reporting 94664, documentation should include an indication of medical necessity.
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