Pulmonology Coding Alert
Reader Question:
Chest Tube Removal
Published on Mon Dec 31, 2012
Question: Is there a payable code for removal of a chest tube?
New Hampshire Subscriber
Answer: If the chest-tube removal falls within the global period of a surgery (90 days) performed by the same physician, and does not require a return to the operating room, it is included in the surgical fee. If it does not fall within a global period and requires an incision, an unlisted procedure code (39499 unlisted procedure, mediastinum) should be reported. Documentation should be submitted with the code detailing what was performed. If the removal is non-incision, this service is included in the E/M codes reported by the physician for that day.
Other Articles in this issue of
Pulmonology Coding Alert
- Dont Lose Money on Pulmonology Consults
Careful documentation and choosing proper language can mean the difference between getting paid for consultations [...] - How to Match Codes Correctly to Methacholine Challenge Tests
There are two different codes 94070 and 95070 for methacholine challenge tests, (MCT) and coders [...] - Reader Question:
Repeat Bronchoscopy
Question: A pulmonologist performed a bronchoscopy and then did another one with a new scope. [...] - Reader Question:
Plethysmography Denials
Question: When our physician performs a plethysmography, we code it 93720. However, lately the insurance [...] - Reader Question:
Function Tests
Question: What codes do I use for a pulmonology function test?
Georgia Subscriber
Answer: The [...] - Reader Question:
Asthma Education
Question: Our physician spent two hours with a patient on asthma education. How should we [...] - Reader Question:
Pulmonary Stress Test
Question: What code should I use for a six-minute walk (pulmonary stress test)?
Kansas Subscriber
Answer: [...] - Reader Question:
Lung Re-expansion
Question: If a 9-French drainage catheter is placed over a needle into the pleural space [...] - Reader Question:
Vaccines and Office Visits
Question: How do I get paid for flu or pneumonia shots administered on the same [...] - Reader Question:
Preoperative Physical
Question: How do I bill a presurgical physical (99243, office consultation) to get paid for [...] - Reader Question:
Chest Tube Removal
Question: Is there a payable code for removal of a chest tube?
[...] - You Be the Coder:
E/M Visit
Question: A patient suffered from severe shortness of breath. She was given oxygen. During that [...] - Reader Question:
Pulse Oximetry
Question: Can I bill a pulse oximetry with the office visits when they are necessary? [...]
View All
