Cardiology: New cardiography guidelines clarify code requirements

Why This Topic Matters

It helps cardiology practices recognize that documentation and payer policy can affect whether certain diagnostic services are reportable or covered. The article also highlights how Medicare coverage status and broader imaging payment policy may influence reimbursement for new cardiac MRI services.

Article Sections

1. Cardiography documentation guidance

   This section discusses updated documentation expectations for cardiography services in CPT 2008 and the types of elements referenced in the guidance. It focuses on the general requirements surrounding use of the related electrocardiography and rhythm strip codes.

2. Cardiac MRI coverage and payment policy

   This section reviews Medicare coverage status for newly added cardiac MRI services and notes which services are treated differently under national policy. It also addresses broader payment impacts related to office-based imaging reimbursement.