October 2015 page 9b
Radiology: Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging)
Question: How many times may code 72020 be reported?
Answer: Code 72020, Radiologic examination, spine, single view, specify level, may be reported only once per session. If the same or another level is studied at a separate session on the same date of service, each study may be reported separately. A modifier (eg, 59, 76, 77) may be required to denote that two separate and distinct studies were performed at different times on the same day. As the use of modifiers is payer specific, it is advisable to check with...
Note: The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AMA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.
Article Overview
This October 2015 CPT Assistant Q&A article reviews several diagnostic radiology coding topics relevant to radiology practices and coding staff. It addresses reporting considerations for repeated spine imaging on the same date of service, updated hip imaging coding in the CPT 2016 code set, thoracolumbar junction X-ray reporting by view count, PET/MRI fusion documentation issues, and a cardiac amyloidosis SPECT scenario. The article is useful for coders, billers, and radiology departments looking to understand the scope of these imaging-related guidance items.
Why This Topic Matters
Radiology coding often depends on imaging type, number of views, and whether studies occur separately or together on the same date. This article helps readers identify the relevant guidance areas covered in the Q&A and understand which radiology scenarios were addressed in this issue.
Article Sections
October 2015 page 9b
Introductory Q&A content for diagnostic radiology coding topics appearing in this issue. It frames several imaging scenarios covered later in the article.
What You Will Learn
The scope of diagnostic radiology Q&A topics covered in the October 2015 issue
Which imaging scenarios are discussed for spine, hip, PET/MRI, and SPECT services
How the article presents updated guidance tied to CPT coding references and payer considerations
What kinds of radiology reporting questions are addressed for coders and billing staff
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