Reader Question:
Stick to the Details to Separate 36415 from 36416
Published on Mon Jul 02, 2012
Question: Can we bill separately for 36416, or is the collection included in the E/M code? Florida SubscriberAnswer: A few private payers reimburse for 36416 (Collection of capillary blood specimen [e.g., finger, heel, ear stick]), but many consider it part of the billed procedure. Check with your payers to learn their guidelines. Caution: Don't confuse 36416 with 36415 (Collection of venous blood by venipuncture). Medicare and other insurers will typically pay for 36415 because it is a more extensive service. Be sure you know which collection method your technician performs before billing the encounter.