Pulmonology Coding Alert
Laryngoscopy: Choose Direct Versus Indirect
Question: What's the difference between indirect and direct laryngoscopy, and how should I code these procedures? Answer: Laryngoscopy is a procedure that allows the physician to view the back of the throat, including the "voice box" and vocal cords. The indirect method involves a handheld mirror to view the throat. You report this procedure with 31505 (Laryngoscopy, indirect; diagnostic [separate procedure]).
Virginia Subscriber
The direct method involves the use of a fiber-optic scope to view the same structures. The direct method provides better views, and you should look at codes 31520 (Laryngoscopy direct, with or without tracheoscopy; diagnostic, newborn) or 31525 (Laryngoscopy, direct, with or without tracheoscopy; diagnostic, except newborn), depending on the age of the patient.
Pulmonology Coding Alert
- 3 Scenarios Boost Your Nebulizer Coding Knowledge
J codes offer you the option of billing for albuterol - but not without a [...] - NCCI Update:
Recent Edits May Have Little Effect on Your 94060 Reporting
Note the new bronchospasm and push-drug designation The upcoming National Correct Coding Initiative 11.1 edits [...] - Refer to This List to Stay on Top of Your Latest J Codes
Take a peek at the inhalation solution codes
While you're updating your infusion codes, make sure [...] - Don't Underestimate the Value of Longer-Than-Usual Appointments
Always report add-on codes with an E/M service and recoup full pay If you find [...] - You Be the Coder When Reporting 31624, Details Matter
Question: The pulmonologist in our practice performed a transbronchial biopsy in the patient's left upper [...] - Remember, Face-to-Face Time Is Cumulative, Not Continuous
Here's a claim example that should help ease your prolonged service cases Just because your [...] - Reader Questions:
Believe It or Not - You May Not Always Charge
Question: When a patient brings a CPAP computer card to the pulmonologist and the pulmonologist [...] - Reader Questions:
Don't Bill Separately for Catheter Drainage
Question: A patient comes to our office for follow-up on a pleural catheter (32019) our [...] - Reader Questions:
Laryngoscopy: Choose Direct Versus Indirect
Question: What's the difference between indirect and direct laryngoscopy, and how should I code these [...] - Reader Questions:
2 Biopsies in 2 Areas Require Modifier -59
Question: One of our physicians wants to report 31623, 31625 and 31629 for the same [...] - Reader Questions:
Observation Admit Codes Do Have a Limit
Question: Another doctor asked my pulmonologist for a consult with a patient who had been [...]
