E/M Coding Alert - 2012 Issue 30
Recovery Audit Contractors: RAC Sets Sights on Auditing Nerve Conduction Study Code 95904
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Article Overview
This article discusses a recovery audit contractor review focused on nerve conduction study claims and broader documentation concerns tied to electrodiagnostic testing. It is intended for coders, billers, and compliance staff who submit or review nerve conduction and EMG claims. The piece covers audit risk awareness, documentation review topics, diagnosis selection considerations, and a coding update related to combined electrodiagnostic services.
Why This Topic Matters
It helps readers recognize why certain nerve conduction study claims may draw audit attention and what general claim areas are being reviewed. It also highlights the need to keep electrodiagnostic coding and documentation aligned with current CPT guidance and payer expectations.
Article Sections
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Audit focus and claim review concern
Introduces the recovery audit contractor issue and the general claim pattern under review. It frames why nerve conduction study claims may warrant closer internal review.
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FAQs on nerve conduction study billing
Presents three common billing questions related to nerve conduction studies and related electrodiagnostic services. The discussion addresses unit counting, diagnosis documentation, and when additional coding elements may not be needed.
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Question 1: Know when multiple units are justified
Discusses how nerve conduction study units are assessed when multiple nerves or sides are tested. It focuses on the general relationship between testing structure and claim reporting.
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Question 2: Make sure diagnosis code is specific and accurate
Reviews the importance of linking the service to appropriate supporting documentation and a specific diagnosis. It also notes payer review and patient notice considerations at a general level.
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Question 3: Know when modifiers are unnecessary
Explains a coding update affecting combined electrodiagnostic services and discusses the general need to use the current CPT structure. It addresses documentation-based reporting rather than modifier-based corrections.
What You Will Learn
- How audit activity can affect nerve conduction study claims
- What areas of documentation are commonly reviewed for electrodiagnostic testing
- How unit-count and diagnosis documentation concerns are presented in the article
- What general CPT update is discussed for combined EMG and nerve conduction services
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Medical billers
- Compliance staff
- Neurology and electrodiagnostic practice staff
- Revenue cycle professionals
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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