READER QUESTIONS: You Can Always Bill Diagnostic Tests After A Surgery

Why This Topic Matters

Understanding what is and is not included in a global surgical package helps avoid missed reimbursement and incorrect bundling of separately payable diagnostic services.

Article Sections

1. Question about diagnostic testing during the global period

   A reader asks how Medicare handles diagnostic services during the postoperative period for a cardiology procedure with a global surgical package.

2. Answer and Medicare global package overview

   The article summarizes what the global package generally includes and notes that diagnostic services are discussed as separately covered under Medicare guidance.

3. Exception involving device checks

   The article notes a device-check scenario in which an electrocardiogram may be part of a broader service rather than treated as a separate diagnostic test.