CPT CODES

CPT Code 19020

CPT code 19020 is for the surgical procedure involving the incision of a breast lesion.

Accelerate your revenue cycle

Boost patient experience and your bottom line by automating patient cost estimates, payer underpayment detection, and contract optimization in one place.

Get a Demo

What is CPT Code 19020

CPT code 19020 is used to describe the procedure for making an incision into a breast lesion. This code is typically utilized when a healthcare provider needs to surgically open a lesion in the breast to either remove it or obtain a sample for further examination. This procedure is often performed to diagnose or treat various breast conditions, including cysts, tumors, or other abnormal growths.

Does CPT 19020 Need a Modifier?

For CPT code 19020, which pertains to the incision of a breast lesion, the following modifiers may be applicable:

1. Modifier 50 - Bilateral Procedure: This modifier is used if the procedure is performed on both breasts during the same session.

2. Modifier 51 - Multiple Procedures: This modifier is used when multiple procedures are performed during the same surgical session.

3. Modifier 52 - Reduced Services: This modifier is used if the procedure is partially reduced or eliminated at the physician's discretion.

4. Modifier 59 - Distinct Procedural Service: This modifier is used to indicate that the procedure is distinct or independent from other services performed on the same day.

5. Modifier LT - Left Side: This modifier is used to specify that the procedure was performed on the left breast.

6. Modifier RT - Right Side: This modifier is used to specify that the procedure was performed on the right breast.

7. Modifier 76 - Repeat Procedure by Same Physician: This modifier is used if the same procedure is repeated by the same physician on the same day.

8. Modifier 77 - Repeat Procedure by Another Physician: This modifier is used if the same procedure is repeated by a different physician on the same day.

9. 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 modifier is used if the patient needs to return to the operating room for a related procedure during the postoperative period.

10. Modifier 79 - Unrelated Procedure or Service by the Same Physician During the Postoperative Period: This modifier is used if an unrelated procedure is performed by the same physician during the postoperative period.

11. Modifier 99 - Multiple Modifiers: This modifier is used when two or more modifiers are necessary to describe the service performed.

Each of these modifiers serves a specific purpose and should be used according to the clinical scenario and payer guidelines to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

CPT Code 19020 Medicare Reimbursement

Determining whether the CPT code 19020 is reimbursed by Medicare involves consulting the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) and the guidelines set forth by the Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) for your specific region. The MPFS provides a comprehensive list of services covered by Medicare, along with the associated reimbursement rates.

To ascertain if CPT code 19020 is reimbursed, you would first check the MPFS to see if the code is listed and if it has an assigned reimbursement rate. If the code is present in the MPFS, it indicates that Medicare does reimburse for this service, subject to any specific conditions or limitations.

Additionally, it's crucial to review the local coverage determinations (LCDs) and national coverage determinations (NCDs) provided by your MAC. These documents offer detailed information on the medical necessity and documentation requirements for the reimbursement of CPT code 19020. Each MAC may have slightly different guidelines, so it's essential to verify the specifics for your region.

In summary, to determine if CPT code 19020 is reimbursed by Medicare, consult the MPFS for its inclusion and reimbursement rate, and review the LCDs and NCDs from your MAC for any additional requirements or limitations.

Are You Being Underpaid for 19020 CPT Code?

Discover how MD Clarity's RevFind software can meticulously analyze your contracts and identify underpayments down to the CPT code level, including specific codes like 19020. Ensure you're receiving accurate reimbursements from every payer. Schedule a demo today to see how RevFind can optimize your revenue cycle management.

Get paid in full by bringing clarity to your revenue cycle

Full Page Background