jules0024
Guest
I have questions about the proper billing for an ambulatory infusion center at our hospital.
The infusion center wants to bill an e/m code for every visit. They usually use 99212. There is no physician on site, only RNs. The manager feels that since the e/m codes are time based that they can justify using the e/m codes with the infusion charge. I have informed her that the e/m code cannot be billed with the infusion unless there is a significant/identifiable situation that happens. She feels that when they have long infusions, i.e., IVIG, that they can use the e/m code for the extra vitals & assessments they have to do. I also told her that the 99211 can be used when the patient comes in and only sees the nurse. For example, when they come in for just a dressing change on their port or have their PICC line removed.
1. Can someone confirm that they cannot use the e/m codes for the extra vitals/assessments? Everything I have found, says they cannot.
2. Does anyone have a link/article they can share that would provide a time it would be appropriate for them to use an e/m code?
Thank you for your help!
Julie
The infusion center wants to bill an e/m code for every visit. They usually use 99212. There is no physician on site, only RNs. The manager feels that since the e/m codes are time based that they can justify using the e/m codes with the infusion charge. I have informed her that the e/m code cannot be billed with the infusion unless there is a significant/identifiable situation that happens. She feels that when they have long infusions, i.e., IVIG, that they can use the e/m code for the extra vitals & assessments they have to do. I also told her that the 99211 can be used when the patient comes in and only sees the nurse. For example, when they come in for just a dressing change on their port or have their PICC line removed.
1. Can someone confirm that they cannot use the e/m codes for the extra vitals/assessments? Everything I have found, says they cannot.
2. Does anyone have a link/article they can share that would provide a time it would be appropriate for them to use an e/m code?
Thank you for your help!
Julie
