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-50 modifier with cervicocerebral codes

Date: Feb 7, 2013

Question:

We purchased and watched the 2013 CPT code update webinar. Since then, we received the update from ZHealth below regarding cervicocerebral angio bilat coding. We're not sure if this something that we should take action on or not.

Based on the 2013 CPT book and the information from the webinar, our health system created unique charge codes for the new cervicalcerebral angio CPTs when performed bilaterally (to the same order of cath plcmt).

Given the information provided below, would you have any guidance on if we continue to use the unique charge codes for the bilateral variation - as the CPT book seems to advise? Or do we charge the same CPT twice when both sides are imaged to the same level of cath placement?

I understand that Medicare reimbursement generally doesn't hinge on the charge codes assigned; but apparently, if coded wrong, reimbursement might be denied. So... any help on this?

Thank you!
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