5 FAQs about Category III codes

Why This Topic Matters

Category III codes are important for documenting emerging technology and procedures, supporting payer and policy tracking, and helping practices avoid compliance problems when selecting reporting options. Understanding the article can help staff stay current with temporary-code updates and recognize when broader reporting issues may arise.

Article Sections

1. Introduction

   Introduces the topic of Category III CPT codes and frames the article as a set of frequently asked questions for practice staff.

2. Question 1: Where can I find Category III codes?

   Covers where these temporary codes are located and mentions sources and updates used to monitor them.

3. Question 2: Why should we report Category III codes if we won’t be paid?

   Discusses the broader purpose of reporting temporary codes and how they relate to tracking new or emerging procedures.

4. Question 3: Do any other pain procedures have category III codes?

   Provides pain-procedure examples that use Category III reporting and notes associated ultrasound-guided categories.

5. Question 4: The new epidural codes include CT and fluoroscopy in the descriptor. Is there a Category III code for epidurals with ultrasound?

   Addresses a question about epidural reporting and ultrasound guidance within the temporary-code framework.

6. Question 5: Adding all of these codes to our system is time-consuming and we don’t use them that frequently. May we report unlisted procedure code 64999 instead?

   Addresses the relationship between a temporary code option and an unlisted procedure reporting alternative, with compliance implications.