CPT code 43228 is a medical billing code for esophageal endoscopy ablation, used to describe a specific procedure in healthcare.
CPT code 43228 is for an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) procedure that involves the ablation of tissue in the esophagus. This procedure is typically performed to treat conditions such as Barrett's esophagus or other precancerous lesions by using techniques like radiofrequency ablation or laser therapy to destroy abnormal tissue. It is a minimally invasive approach aimed at improving patient outcomes by reducing the risk of esophageal cancer.
When billing for CPT code 43228 (Esoph endoscopy ablation), the following modifiers may be applicable:
1. Modifier 22 - Increased Procedural Services: Use this modifier if the procedure required significantly more work than typically required. This could be due to complications or other factors that necessitate additional time and effort.
2. Modifier 26 - Professional Component: This modifier is used when only the professional component of the service is being billed, typically when the provider is interpreting the results of the procedure.
3. Modifier 51 - Multiple Procedures: Apply this modifier if multiple procedures were performed during the same session. This helps indicate that the procedure was one of several performed.
4. Modifier 52 - Reduced Services: Use this modifier if the procedure was partially reduced or eliminated at the physician's discretion.
5. Modifier 53 - Discontinued Procedure: This modifier is used if the procedure was started but discontinued due to extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well-being of the patient.
6. Modifier 59 - Distinct Procedural Service: Apply this modifier to indicate that the procedure was distinct or independent from other services performed on the same day.
7. Modifier 76 - Repeat Procedure by Same Physician: Use this modifier if the same procedure was 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 was repeated by a different physician on the same day.
9. Modifier 78 - Unplanned Return to the Operating/Procedure Room: Apply this modifier if the patient had 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: Use this modifier if an unrelated procedure was performed by the same physician during the postoperative period of the initial procedure.
11. Modifier 80 - Assistant Surgeon: This modifier is used if an assistant surgeon was required during the procedure.
12. Modifier 81 - Minimum Assistant Surgeon: Apply this modifier if a minimum assistant surgeon was required.
13. Modifier 82 - Assistant Surgeon (when qualified resident surgeon not available): Use this modifier if an assistant surgeon was necessary because a qualified resident surgeon was not available.
14. Modifier AS - Physician Assistant, Nurse Practitioner, or Clinical Nurse Specialist services for assistant at surgery: This modifier is used when these non-physician practitioners assist in the surgery.
15. Modifier GC - This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician: Use this modifier if the procedure was performed by a resident under the supervision of a teaching physician.
16. Modifier QX - CRNA service with medical direction by a physician: Apply this modifier if a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) provided the service under the medical direction of a physician.
17. Modifier QY - Medical direction of one CRNA by an anesthesiologist: Use this modifier if an anesthesiologist provided medical direction to one CRNA.
18. Modifier QZ - CRNA service without medical direction by a physician: This modifier is used if a CRNA provided the service without the medical direction of a physician.
These modifiers help provide additional information about the circumstances under which the procedure was performed, ensuring accurate billing and reimbursement.
The CPT code 43228, which involves esoph endoscopy ablation, is reimbursed by Medicare. To determine the specific reimbursement rate, healthcare providers should refer to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS). Additionally, it is important to consult with the relevant Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) for any regional variations or specific guidelines that may apply to the reimbursement process for this CPT code.
Discover how MD Clarity's RevFind software can meticulously analyze your contracts and pinpoint underpayments down to the CPT code level, including specific codes like 43228. Schedule a demo today to see how RevFind can help you identify and recover revenue from individual payers.