Ask Dr. Z

This question is about canceled procedures. The patient was scheduled for a CT-guided lung biopsy as an outpatient. The radiologist performed an H&P and pre-sedation assessment. A noncontrast CT of the chest was then performed. After multiple attempts at positioning as well as trying different breathing techniques, the biopsy could not be performed because of the inaccessible position of the nodule. Therefore, the biopsy was canceled. A report was dictated for the noncontrast CT scan and includes a description of the events that transpired. There will be a separate claim for the interpretation of the CT chest. Our radiologist wants to know if it is appropriate to also bill an E&M for the H&P in this case. Thank you.