September 2003 page 15b
Coding Consultation:Questions and Answers
Medicine, 93720 (Q&A)
Question
Does the measurement of total body
composition/fat mass, known as "air displacement plethysmography" meet the criteria for
reporting CPT code 93720? The procedure is performed by entering the
patient's height, age, and gender into the analyzer and having the patient step on a scale.
The scale/analyzer measures body mass index, basal metabolic rate, impedance, fat
percentage, fat mass, fat free mass, total body water, and desirable range and provides a
print out.
AMA Comment
No. It is not appropriate to report code 93720 in this instance...
Note: The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AMA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.
Article Overview
This September 2003 Medicine article presents a coding consultation in Q&A format focused on a body-composition measurement service and whether it aligns with a CPT plethysmography reporting question. It is relevant to coders and billing staff who need general guidance on how the service is viewed in relation to an evaluation and management encounter and a pulmonary diagnostic procedure category.
Why This Topic Matters
It helps readers quickly determine whether the article addresses a specific coding scenario involving a body-composition analyzer, CPT plethysmography, and possible inclusion in an E/M service.
Article Sections
Coding Consultation: Questions and Answers
A question-and-answer discussion about whether a body-composition measurement service fits within a CPT reporting scenario. The section includes the AMA’s coding commentary on the general nature of the service and its relationship to another visit type.
What You Will Learn
The general topic of a body-composition measurement coding question
How the article frames the service in relation to CPT plethysmography
The type of coding guidance provided in a Q&A consultation format
The clinical and billing context discussed in the article
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