MUEs for HCPCS codes with an MAI of “3” are “per day edits based on clinical benchmarks.”
MUEs assigned an MAI of “3” are based on criteria (e.g., nature of service, prescribing
information) combined with data such that it would be possible but medically highly unlikely
that higher values would represent correctly reported medically necessary services. If contractors
have evidence (e.g., medical review) that UOS in excess of the MUE value were actually
provided, were correctly coded and were medically necessary, the contractor may bypass the
MUE for a HCPCS code with an MAI of “3” during claim processing, reopening, or
redetermination, or in response to effectuation instructions from a reconsideration or higher-level
appeal.