CPT code 00790 is used to describe anesthesia services provided during surgical procedures on the upper abdomen.
CPT code 00790 is used to describe anesthesia services provided for surgical procedures involving the upper abdomen. This code is specifically utilized by anesthesiologists and other healthcare professionals to document and bill for the administration of anesthesia during surgeries that target the upper abdominal region. The use of this code ensures that the anesthesia services are accurately recorded and reimbursed, reflecting the complexity and scope of the procedure being performed.
For CPT code 00790, which pertains to anesthesia for surgical procedures on the upper abdomen, the following modifiers may be applicable:
1. Modifier 22 - Increased Procedural Services: This modifier is used when the work required to provide the service is substantially greater than typically required. Documentation must support the substantial additional work and the reason for it.
2. Modifier 23 - Unusual Anesthesia: This is used when a procedure that usually requires either no anesthesia or local anesthesia must be performed under general anesthesia due to unusual circumstances.
3. Modifier 47 - Anesthesia by Surgeon: This modifier is used when the surgeon administers regional or general anesthesia to the patient. It is not used for local anesthesia.
4. Modifier 59 - Distinct Procedural Service: This modifier is used to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other services performed on the same day. It is used to identify procedures/services that are not normally reported together but are appropriate under the circumstances.
5. Modifier 76 - Repeat Procedure or Service by Same Physician or Other Qualified Health Care Professional: This is used when a procedure or service is repeated by the same physician or other qualified healthcare professional subsequent to the original procedure or service.
6. Modifier 77 - Repeat Procedure by Another Physician or Other Qualified Health Care Professional: This is used when a procedure or service is repeated by another physician or qualified healthcare professional subsequent to the original procedure or service.
7. Modifier 78 - Unplanned Return to the Operating/Procedure Room by the Same Physician Following Initial Procedure for a Related Procedure During the Postoperative Period: This is used when a patient requires a return to the operating room for a related procedure during the postoperative period.
8. Modifier 79 - Unrelated Procedure or Service by the Same Physician During the Postoperative Period: This is used when a procedure or service performed during the postoperative period is unrelated to the original procedure.
9. Modifier AA - Anesthesia Services Performed Personally by Anesthesiologist: This indicates that the anesthesia services were personally performed by an anesthesiologist.
10. Modifier QK - Medical Direction of Two, Three, or Four Concurrent Anesthesia Procedures Involving Qualified Individuals: This is used when an anesthesiologist is medically directing two to four concurrent anesthesia procedures.
11. Modifier QX - CRNA Service: With Medical Direction by a Physician: This is used when a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) provides anesthesia services under the medical direction of a physician.
12. Modifier QY - Medical Direction of One Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) by an Anesthesiologist: This is used when an anesthesiologist provides medical direction for one CRNA.
13. Modifier QZ - CRNA Service: Without Medical Direction by a Physician: This is used when a CRNA provides anesthesia services without the medical direction of a physician.
These modifiers help provide additional information about the circumstances under which the anesthesia services were provided, ensuring accurate billing and reimbursement.
CPT code 00790 is subject to reimbursement by Medicare, but its reimbursement is contingent upon several factors. The Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) is a critical resource that determines the payment rates for services covered under Medicare Part B, including anesthesia services. To ascertain if CPT code 00790 is reimbursed, healthcare providers should consult the MPFS to verify if the code is listed and to understand the specific payment rate associated with it.
Additionally, Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) play a pivotal role in the reimbursement process. MACs are responsible for processing Medicare claims and have the authority to make determinations on coverage and payment for services within their jurisdiction. Therefore, it is essential for healthcare providers to check with their respective MAC to confirm if CPT code 00790 is covered and to understand any local coverage determinations (LCDs) or specific billing guidelines that may apply.
In summary, while CPT code 00790 can be reimbursed by Medicare, providers must verify its inclusion in the MPFS and consult their MAC for any additional requirements or coverage specifics.
Discover the power of MD Clarity's RevFind software to ensure you're receiving the full reimbursement you deserve. With the ability to read your contracts and detect underpayments down to the CPT code level, including specific codes like 00790, RevFind provides unparalleled accuracy and insight. Schedule a demo today to see how RevFind can help you identify discrepancies by individual payer and optimize your revenue cycle management.