IMAGE Spotlight June 2014 | Page 20

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Inspiring, Motivating, Amazing & Generous Employees

By: Patrice Johnson

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Question:

In the CCI, 32551 is the column one code and 71020 is the column two code. Can modifier 59 be assigned to 71020 in this case?

32551Tube thoracostomy, includes connection to drainage system (e.g., water seal), when performed, open

71020Radiologic examination, chest, 2 views, frontal and lateral

Answer:

In a recently issued provider-information memo, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) stated that modifier 59 should be reported with 71020 if, later in the day following the insertion of a chest tube, the patient develops a high fever, and a chest x-ray is performed to rule out pneumonia. However, the modifier should not be reported with 71020 if the chest x-ray performed follows insertion of a chest tube in order to verify correct placement.

Radiology Coding Education Corner