Ask Dr. Z

Are antibiotics typically given 30-60 minutes prior to a procedure billable to the patient? For example, I was told that when placing a neph tube the antibiotic is not billable, but if we are changing a neph tube it is billable. Basically if we don't always use antibiotics before something like a neph tube change then I was to bill for it. I see some doctors ordering it and some do not. Also was told that our OR does not bill for antibiotics given before, but if given after may be billable. I need clear information if I am to challenge the person who trained me.