Coding Nonselective and Selective Catheterization for Same Access Site No Longer Permissible

Why This Topic Matters

The topic is important because it addresses a long-standing billing practice that CMS says is not supported in certain same-access scenarios. Coders and clinicians need to understand the policy change to reduce claim denials and avoid noncompliant reporting.

Article Sections

1. CMS guidance and the reported coding issue

   Introduces the coding combination at issue and summarizes the Medicare/CMS position described in the article. It frames the dispute between prior coding practice and the updated guidance.

2. Rationale, organization response, and documentation concerns

   Discusses the reasoning previously used by some coders, the reaction from a specialty society, and comments from coding experts. It also emphasizes the role of documentation and carrier guidance.

3. Related reporting considerations

   Notes an additional reporting point tied to associated radiology supervision and interpretation services. It provides a broader context for the affected study type without detailing selection rules.