Coding changes effective 01/01/18 have been released and among those changes are the anesthesia services for colonoscopy and upper GI services. Along with the code changes, there are changes to the base units, i.e. revenue.
A colonoscopy is currently coded with 00810 and has 5 base units. The new code for diagnostic colonoscopies will be 00811 with 4 base units; and for screening colonoscopies, the new code will be 00812 with 3 base units.
An upper GI is currently coded with 00740 and has 5 base units. The new code for endoscope introduced proximal to duodenum not otherwise specified will be 00731 with 5 base units; and the new code for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography will be 00732, with 6 base units.
Currently, when both a colonoscopy and upper GI are performed, the primary procedure is coded and total time is billed. Both codes have 5 base units. With the new coding changes, code 00813 with 5 base units will be used when both a colonoscopy and upper GI are performed. Total time will continue to be billed.
With these changes, when doing only a colonoscopy, you will see a reduction in revenue. Please prepare for this change based on your volume. If you need help with trying to estimate the impact to your business, please contact Stephanie at (316) 281-3710 or Phil at (316) 281-3701.
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Editor: Philip Blann (pblann@anesthesiabilling.com).
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