Pulmonary Coding: 3 PFT Focused Cases Show You How to Report Lung Testing

Why This Topic Matters

Pulmonary testing encounters often involve multiple services on the same date and can require careful coordination of procedure, medication, visit, and diagnosis reporting. Understanding the article helps coders identify the relevant code sets and recognize which kinds of documentation and test scenarios are discussed.

Article Sections

1. Background and overview of pulmonary function testing

   Introduces pulmonary function testing as a group of respiratory procedures and places the topic in the context of pulmonology visits and diagnostic evaluation.

2. Fundamental spirometry and bronchospasm testing

   Explains the general testing framework discussed in the article and introduces the primary pulmonary testing scenarios covered in the case examples.

3. Case #1: Diagnostic workup with multiple same-day services

   Presents the first case study involving an established patient visit, several pulmonary tests, related symptom coding, and supportive diagnosis reporting.

4. Case #2: Consultation with bronchodilator-assisted spirometry

   Presents the second case study involving a new patient consultation, repeat pulmonary testing after medication, and diagnosis context for asthma and probable COPD.

5. Case #3: Peak-flow measurement with bronchodilator administration

   Presents the third case study focusing on office evaluation, peak-flow testing, and bronchodilator administration in an asthmatic patient.