anesthesia code updates 2017

If your practice involves anesthesia, you’ll want to stay up-to-date on the latest ICD 10 anesthesia code changes for 2017. Here’s what to look for in the new year.

Procedures Done with Imaging

The 2017 updates eliminate codes 62310, 62311, 62318 and 62319. These are common codes for procedures done with imaging (like fluoroscopy or ultrasound). The replacement codes distinguish between procedures done with and without imaging guidance.

What does this mean in practice? Make sure you clearly document whether or not imaging guidance is used for each procedure.

Moderate (Conscious) Sedation

The 2017 updates completely restructure moderate (conscious) sedation codes. Code ranges 99143-99145 and 99148-99150 have been eliminated, and six new codes (99151-99157) have been added. 

The new code ranges are based on patient age and intra-service time. The intra-service time begins when the sedation is administered  and ends when the procedure is completed, the patient is stable for recovery, and the provider ends personal, continuous face-to-face time with the patient.

If the physician (or other qualified health care professional) both provides the sedation and performs the procedure supported by sedation (99151, 99152, 99153, G0500), an independent, trained observer must assist in monitoring the patient’s level of consciousness and physiological status throughout the procedure.

To correctly code these services, you’ll need to document the total minutes of sedation and the name of the observer assisting with monitoring the patient throughout the procedure. Any service shorter than 10 minutes is not reported separately.

Questions? Need Help?

Do you have questions about ICD 10 codes for anesthesia? Need help with contract negotiations for your practice? Eggleston & Eggleston processes over 50,000 patient visits and surgeries per year for anesthesia and pain procedures. Currently, we are renegotiating contracts will all private payors. Contact us to learn more.