I too am billing 99156 and 99157 and getting them denied. I am going to switch to 99152 and 99153 to see if this does pay
Read the descriptions of the codes carefully. If the correct code is 99156, you cannot simply change the code to 99152 if it denies.
99156 is when you are NOT the clinician performing the procedure. 99152 is when you ARE the clinician performing the procedure.
As a coder, your responsibility is to use the codes that accurately describe the services performed. Intentionally using an incorrect code in order to receive payment can run afoul of many regulations and compliance. You may change a code if it is discovered the original code is incorrect, or per a written carrier policy (like for Medicare inpatient consults, to use 99221-99233).
If your claim is denied, and codes are correct, the first question would be WHY.
99156 Moderate sedation services provided by a physician or other qualified health care professional
other than the physician or other qualified health care professional performing the diagnostic or therapeutic service that the sedation supports; initial 15 minutes of intraservice time, patient age 5 years or older
99152 Moderate sedation services provided by the
same physician or other qualified health care professional performing the diagnostic or therapeutic service that the sedation supports, requiring the presence of an independent trained observer to assist in the monitoring of the patient's level of consciousness and physiological status; initial 15 minutes of intraservice time, patient age 5 years or older