Therapeutic Apheresis: Codes 36511-36522 (September 2009)

Why This Topic Matters

Therapeutic apheresis is a specialized service with multiple closely related CPT codes and documentation requirements. Understanding the article helps readers identify which general procedure category is being addressed and what types of physician activities and service phases are described.

Article Sections

1. Therapeutic Apheresis Overview and Code Family

   Introduces therapeutic apheresis as a procedure category and places it within the relevant CPT code family. The section frames the article’s focus and the general purpose of the guidance.

2. Code 36516 and LDL-Apheresis Context

   Discusses one specific apheresis application, the associated device context, and the broader clinical and regulatory background referenced in the article. It also identifies the professional specialties commonly involved.

3. Patient Eligibility Criteria

   Presents the patient-group framework used in the article’s discussion of apheresis eligibility. The material is organized around broad clinical status and related cardiovascular context.

4. Typical Clinical Scenario and Ongoing Treatment Context

   Describes the general treatment setting, recurring nature of therapy, and physician responsibilities in managing patients receiving apheresis. It also outlines the kinds of monitoring and coordination discussed in the article.

5. Description of Procedure

   Summarizes the overall procedure workflow and the major phases of physician involvement. The section covers preservice, intraservice, and postservice elements at a high level.

6. Preservice

   Covers the pre-procedure evaluation and preparation tasks discussed in the article. The section focuses on review of patient status, related testing, and treatment readiness.

7. Intraservice

   Describes the physician’s role during the procedure and the types of monitoring addressed in the article. It emphasizes supervision, reassessment, and response to changing patient status.

8. Postservice

   Covers the end-of-procedure review and follow-up activities described in the article. The section includes documentation, communication, and post-procedure coordination themes.