Updates section: NCS in 2013 and beyond

Why This Topic Matters

The article is relevant to coding and billing staff who need to understand how the 2013 nerve conduction study update affects reporting and documentation. It helps readers recognize the type of guidance that can influence charge capture, claim submission, and payer review.

Article Sections

1. Train your staff to use 2013 NCS codes

   Introduces the updated nerve conduction study reporting framework for 2013 and the need to prepare staff for the change. It frames the article as a coding update for neurology services.

2. New code set and definition of an NCS

   Summarizes the revised CPT nerve conduction study code series and the general categories of studies included in the new definition. This section provides the basic structure needed to understand the update.

3. Guidance for counting studies

   Describes the broad counting framework used to determine the number of studies reported and references related instructional material. It focuses on how multiple tests are grouped for reporting purposes.

4. Coding scenarios

   Presents example situations illustrating how different combinations of nerve conduction studies are discussed in the article. The examples are used to show the practical application of the updated study-count approach.

5. Check Appendix J to avoid denials

   Highlights the article’s discussion of appendix-based limits and payer review concerns. It explains why the updated guidance may still require careful attention to payer expectations.