Advanced Search

Radiology Coding Alert

READER QUESTIONS:

Contrast Old and New HOCM Codes

Published on Tue Aug 23, 2005

Question: Someone in my office mentioned that there are new codes for high osmolar contrast materials. We sometimes use these, so I was wondering how I'm supposed to code these now.


New Jersey Subscriber


Answer: There are new codes for HOCM - for dates of service on or after July 1, 2005 - listed in the following chart. Bad news: Payers aren't reimbursing these separately from the procedure you use them in. According to the ACR, CMS implemented these codes to assist in tracking the average sales price of the contrast. The official instruction is available online at www.cms.gov/manuals/transmittals/comm_date_dsc.asp
in CR 3847. Or you can find the Medlearn Matters announcement (MM3847, "New Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System [HCPCS] Drug Codes") at www.cms.hhs.gov/medlearn/matters/mmarticles/2005/MM3847.pdf.
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

Radiology Coding Alert

View All