Learn How to Code
Today I am going to share some important information for getting FREE CEUs for AAPC and AHIMA certified medical coders. Yes, CEUs are very important at the end of the year to retain your certification from AAPC and AHIMA. If you do not submit CEUs on time, you certification can be cancelled or discontinued. So … Read more
There is a common misconception that CPT® add-on code +43273 for cholangioscopy can only be reported when using a SpyGlass™ scope. After conducting research, I can confirm that this is not accurate, and here’s why. Focus on the Procedural Note Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) involves both diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, with distinct techniques covered under … Read more
Medical coders often face the challenge of decoding complex surgical reports filled with specialized terminology and detailed procedures. When confronted with a lengthy, intricate report, it can be overwhelming. However, breaking the process into manageable steps helps simplify and organize the task. The following six steps will guide you in transforming a complex surgical procedure … Read more
It’s important for medical coders to understand the differences between audio-only visits and telephone visits, as they are not the same, despite both being types of telehealth services. Key Differences in the Codes: Audio-only codes are designed for both new and established patients. This means that these codes can be used whether it’s the first … Read more
HCPCS Level II add-on code G2211 recognizes the significant and ongoing relationship between a patient and their physician. It compensates for the additional time and effort involved in managing the complexities of long-term patient care. This includes activities such as patient conversations, development of comprehensive care plans, and collaborative decision-making. This article explores the billing … Read more
When it comes to coding medical services, the diagnosis plays a critical role in determining whether a service is medically necessary. However, using vague or unclear diagnosis codes can often lead to claim denials. It’s essential to be specific with your diagnosis, especially when it comes to pain. If a clear source of the pain … Read more
Description of CPT code 38225, 38226, 38227 & 38228 We have new CPT codes for Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR-T) therapy in 2025 and it will be used from new year. Below is the coding description for these codes. CPT 38225 – Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy; harvesting of blood derived T lymphocytes for development … Read more
Basics of CPT code 25447 & 25448 In Musculosketetal, their is one new CPT code added in 2025, CPT code 25448 was added in this section in new year with revision of CPT code 26447. Below is the code description for both the codes. 25447 – Arthroplasty, intercarpal or carpometacarpal joints; interposition (eg, tendon) 25448 … Read more
In some cases, procedure codes alone do not provide sufficient detail to convey the exact service or procedure performed to the payer. In these situations, Medicare or private insurers may require physicians to append a modifier to the procedure code listed on the claim to clarify the nature of the service. Physicians may use either … Read more
For accurate ICD-10-CM and CPT coding of fracture treatments, medical coders should identify the following critical details from the physician’s documentation: Fracture Location and Laterality: Specify the anatomical location (e.g., distal, proximal, mid-shaft) and laterality (if applicable) of the fracture. Common anatomical terms include distal, middle, proximal, mid-shaft, apophyseal, articular, periarticular, and others. Traumatic vs. … Read more
Modifiers 33 and PT are used to inform payers that a service provided was either initiated as or fully performed as a screening. These modifiers are essential when the HCPCS code used does not explicitly describe the service as a screening. Modifier -33 and Medicare Modifier -33 is not recognized by Medicare, which instead requires … Read more