Our coding experts answer your questions about correct use of modifier –PD, coding infusions to correct low potassium levels, payment for HCPCS code J2354, appropriate reporting of IV push followed by infusion of the same drug, and the difference between modifiers –AS and -80.
Our coding experts answer your questions about unsuccessful foreign body removal, assigning modifier -52 for cancelled procedures, new HCPCS codes for April, reporting vaccine administration codes, new composite codes for 2012.
The transition to ICD-10-CM is coming. The only question is when. Despite the delay, coders and other HIM professionals must continue to prepare for the transition.
Q Addendum B of the APC updates for 2012 indicates the new molecular pathology codes have status indicator E (noncovered service, not paid under OPPS). Our laboratory director said we should report these new codes in addition to the codes that are payable. Can you explain why?
Q We're struggling with nursing documentation of stop times for IV infusions (e.g., piggybacks and hydration). The nurses also inconsistently document a patient's return to the unit from diagnostics. We know that CMS now allows us to use average times for common services, and we're interested in considering this approach at my organization. Can you share additional specifics?
Taxonomy codes play a very important role in medical billing and credentialing for providers or group specialties.HIPAA-standard code sets specify a "standard" for transactions. In many cases, a taxonomy code is required to reimburse a claim; however, the reporting requirements for a taxonomy code may vary between insurance carriers and your third-party payers.
Our sister website JustCoding.com recently published its 2014 Coder Salary Survey. Since many of our readers responded to the survey, we would like to share some of the results with you.
