Advanced Search

Pediatric Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Look to 'V' Code When Performing Hearing Screenings

Published on Sat Oct 09, 2010

Question: We performed a hearing screening on a 6-year-old patient and we aren't sure which procedure and diagnosis codes to report. We didn't perform any other well-patient services -- the patient simply hearing test so she could go to kindergarten. Can you advise?Answer: You should report 92551 (Screening test, pure tone, air only), with the hearing screening linked to diagnosis code V72.19 (Other examination of ears and hearing) in this situation, since the patient did not have any symptoms that would allow you to bill diagnostic ICD-9 codes. If the patient previously had a failed hearing screen, for instance, at school, then you'd report V72.11 (Encounter for hearing examination following failed hearing screening) instead.
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

Pediatric Coding Alert

View All