Wiki Suture Remove after ER

[admin@k2derm.com]

Hi all -- we had a Pt come to us for a wound check and suture removal, a week after an ER visit that put in the stitches. My provider is billing a 99212 w/ Z48.02 (Encounter for removal of sutures) which I fear will deny as included in the original procedure to stitch him up. Would it be appropriate to bill with primary dx code as Z71.89 (Counseling, with Prescription Medication Management) and Z48.02 as second pointer?
Thanks for thoughts.

 

[TThivierge]

Admin
Use the frist dx of definitve problem on why got sititches, then Z48 dx block. If use dx Z48 get a denial cause 2nd dx code not first listed dx code.I hope this helps you
Lady T

 

[csperoni]

Hi all -- we had a Pt come to us for a wound check and suture removal, a week after an ER visit that put in the stitches. My provider is billing a 99212 w/ Z48.02 (Encounter for removal of sutures) which I fear will deny as included in the original procedure to stitch him up. Would it be appropriate to bill with primary dx code as Z71.89 (Counseling, with Prescription Medication Management) and Z48.02 as second pointer?
Thanks for thoughts.

Addressing your concern for bundled into original sutures, global periods only apply to the same provider/same group. The same group is physicians of the same specialty/subspecialty using the same TID#. While it's possible, it is unlikely that your physician removing the sutures is the part of the same group and same specialty.
Don't forget there is an add on code for suture removal of 15853.