AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2012 Issue 4 (Fall)
Radiology Test Case Answer
Radiology Test Case Answer 78070 Parathyroid imaging 78803 Radiopharmaceutical localization of tumor or distribution of radiopharmaceutical agent(s); tomographic (SPECT) 78999 Unlisted miscellaneous procedure, diagnostic nuclear medicine A9500 Technetium Tc-99m sestamibi, diagnostic, per study dose Discussion A planar and SPECT/CT parathyroid study performed before January 1, 2013, should be reported with code 78070 , Parathyroid imaging, for the planar study; code 78803 , Radiopharmaceutical localization of tumor or distribution of radiopharmaceutical agent(s); tomographic (SPECT), for the SPECT study; and code 78999 , Unlisted miscellaneous procedure, diagnostic nuclear medicine, for the fused anatomic localization of the SPECT/CT images. The radiopharmaceuticals used are reported using...
Note: The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AMA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.
Article Overview
This article reviews a radiology test case involving parathyroid nuclear medicine imaging and associated radiopharmaceutical reporting. It explains the general coding context for the service, highlights a CPT code set update effective in 2013, and notes the related HCPCS Level II radiopharmaceutical coding framework. It is relevant to radiology coders, nuclear medicine staff, and billing professionals who track coding changes over time.
Why This Topic Matters
The article helps readers understand that parathyroid imaging reporting changed with the CPT 2013 code set and that radiopharmaceutical supply reporting follows HCPCS Level II conventions. That makes it useful for identifying which coding framework applies by date of service and procedure type.
Article Sections
Discussion
Covers the coding context for parathyroid nuclear medicine imaging, including the relationship between planar imaging, tomographic imaging, and fused localization reporting. It also discusses the related radiopharmaceutical billing framework and the impact of the CPT 2013 code set update.
References
Lists source references used for the coding discussion, including professional society material and a clinical examples publication.
What You Will Learn
How the article frames parathyroid nuclear medicine imaging for coding purposes
How the coding discussion relates to a CPT code set update
How radiopharmaceutical reporting is handled within HCPCS Level II
Which professional and reference sources are cited for the case
Welcome to the ultimate resource for mastering CPT coding – the CPT® Assistant. This indispensable tool, brought to you by the American Medical Association (AMA), is designed specifically for medical coders, auditors, and billers who strive for accuracy and efficiency in their daily work with patient charts. Whether you are validating codes, training staff, or appealing insurance denials, CPT Assistant provides the authoritative guidance you need to excel.
Features
CPT Assistant
Expert Insights: Explanations and interpretations by the CPT Assistant Editorial Board.
Curated Content: Articles addressing key coding topics are meticulously curated for your convenience.
Visual Learning: Detailed examples, charts, graphs and illustrations to help you understand correct coding practices.
Monthly Updates: Regular updates on the latest coding changes and best practices.
Extensive Archive: Access more than 25 years of historical reference material.
Search Capabilities: Enjoy simple and effective search functions by keyword, code number, or article index.
Advantages and Benefits
With CPT Assistant, you can navigate the complexities of medical coding with unparalleled confidence. This resource offers authoritative answers and expert explanations that help reduce coding errors, leading to fewer claim denials and streamlined appeals processes. The comprehensive archive of articles, updated monthly, ensures you always have the most current information at your fingertips, enhancing your ability to stay ahead of industry changes and trends.
CPT Assistant’s visual aids, such as anatomical illustrations and procedural charts, make complex codes easier to understand, improving your accuracy and efficiency. By integrating this resource into your daily workflow, you can save valuable time and enhance your productivity.
Furthermore, CPT Assistant supports your professional growth by providing ongoing education and insights that keep you informed about the latest coding practices. This not only boosts your professional credibility but also enhances your ability to train and support your team effectively.
Get Started Today
Unlock your full potential and boost your coding capabilities with CPT Assistant today and experience the benefits of having a reliable, comprehensive coding resource at your disposal.