Wiki Billing Bone density 77080 and 77081 on the same day. What is the reimbursement?

[davidinasheville]

Previously, 77080 (Axial bone density measurement ) and 77081 (peripheral bone density measurement ) would not be paid on the same day. We are still billing just for axial bone density measurement even when we also do the peripheral bone density measurement. The same used to hold true for 77085 (axial bone measurement with IVA) and 77081 billed together. Here is a previous forum thread referring to the old rules.

As of 06/02/2024, our carrier, Palmetto, now covers 77081 on the same day as 77080. See reference below for how to code (note inconsistency about which code gets the -XU modifier). We are considering implementing this.

Has anyone billed Medicare for 77080 plus 77081? I would love to know what is the additional reimbursement for 77081 when added to 77080?

Thanks

David Clements.

Reference from Palmetto: Bone Mass Measurement Awareness and Screening

• When coding CPT® codes 77085 and 77081 together, attach HCPCS modifier XU (unusual non-overlapping service, a distinct service because it doesn’t overlap usual components of the main service) to CPT® code 77081 to bypass Correct Coding Initiative edit
• When coding CPT© codes 77080 and 77081 together, attach HCPCS modifier XU (unusual non-overlapping service, a distinct service because it doesn’t overlap usual components of the main service) to CPT® code 77080