Three significant changes that will affect reimbursement rates go into effect January 1, 2026:
Conversion factor changes
Relative Value Unit (RVU) efficiency adjustment
Practice Expense changes
If you're a Find-A-Code subscriber, there's no need to worry. Find-A-Code's fee calculators are ready for the change. You can count on Find-A-Code for the most complete and accurate information you need as a medical coder/biller.
Reader Question: 31615 Covers Both Surgical and Diagnostic Bronchoscopy
Question: A vent dependent patient underwent bronchoscopy through an established tract. The findings were mucus plugs in the left lung and a 3mm endobrachial lesion at the start of the right lung’s middle lobe bronchus. Will code 31615 cover this bronchoscopy with the biopsy and mucus plug suction? Or should we use 31623, 31624, or 31625?
Minnesota Subscriber
Answer: Yes, the correct code for a flexible bronchoscopy via a tracheostomy is 31615 (Tracheobronchoscopy through established tracheostomy incision). This code covers elements of both the surgical work (removal of obstructing crusts) and diagnostic bronchoscopy when the same physician performs...
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