AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2004 Issue 1 (Winter)
Radiology FAQ
Radiology FAQ If you have a question you would like to see addressed in the newsletter, please e-mail clinex@acr.org. The editorial staff will pick the most frequently asked questions for publication. Question: Answer: When are CPT codes 78990, Provision of diagnostic radiopharmaceutical(s) , and 79900, Provision of therapeutic radiopharmaceutical(s) , used vs the HCPCS Level II radiopharmaceutical supply codes? While Medicare and other payers recognize the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Level II codes to describe the use of radiopharmaceutical supplies, certain third-party payers require the use of CPT codes 78990 and 79900. However, as of January 1, 2005...
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Article Overview
This article answers common radiology coding questions about how radiopharmaceutical supply reporting is handled across payer types and how CPT ultrasound code selection is approached. It is intended for radiology coders, physicians, and billing staff who need a high-level understanding of the coding resources and guidance referenced in the FAQ, including CPT, HCPCS Level II, CMS, and ACR materials.
Why This Topic Matters
Radiology coding often depends on payer requirements and on selecting codes based on the service being reported. This FAQ highlights areas where coding practice can vary and points readers to the authoritative sources used to confirm current reporting guidance.
Article Sections
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Radiopharmaceutical supply reporting
This section addresses payer differences in reporting radiopharmaceutical supplies and discusses the transition from CPT-based reporting to HCPCS Level II-based reporting. It also references where readers can look for current HCPCS updates.
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Hand-held ultrasound studies
This section discusses general CPT considerations for ultrasound reporting when hand-held equipment is used. It also references documentation and coding guidance sources for ultrasound services.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames payer-related differences in radiopharmaceutical supply reporting
- What general CPT factors are discussed for selecting ultrasound codes
- Which organizations and reference materials are mentioned for coding guidance updates
- How the FAQ is organized around common radiology coding questions
Who Should Read This
- Radiology coders
- Physicians
- Billing staff
- Compliance staff
- Practice administrators
Codes Discussed
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