As medical technology continues to advance, so too do the codes used to document and bill for various procedures and treatments. One area that has seen significant changes in recent years is mammogram coding in the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10).
If you’re a healthcare professional or billing specialist, it’s essential to have a thorough understanding of these codes to ensure proper billing and reimbursement. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to mammogram coding in ICD-10, including the different codes used, when they should be applied, and some common scenarios and challenges you may encounter.
Understanding ICD-10 Codes for Mammograms
The ICD-10 codes for mammograms are divided into two main categories: diagnostic and screening.
Diagnostic Mammogram Coding
Diagnostic mammogram codes are used when a woman has a breast symptom or abnormality that requires further evaluation. These codes are used for diagnostic mammograms that are performed to evaluate a breast lump, nipple discharge, or other breast symptom or abnormality. The codes used for diagnostic mammograms are found in the R92 range in ICD-10.
Screening Mammogram Codes
Screening mammogram codes are used when a woman is asymptomatic and is undergoing a routine screening mammogram. These codes are used for screening mammograms that are performed to detect breast cancer in women who have no symptoms or signs of the disease. The codes used for screening mammograms are found in the Z12.3 range in ICD-10.
It’s important to note that the codes used for diagnostic and screening mammograms are not intechangeable. If a diagnostic mammogram is performed, the diagnostic code must be used, even if the results of the mammogram are normal. Similarly, if a screening mammogram is performed, the screening code must be used, even if an abnormality is found.
Common Scenarios and Challenges
While understanding the codes used for mammograms is important, it’s also essential to have a good understanding of the common scenarios and challenges you may encounter when coding for these procedures.
One common scenario is when a woman has both a diagnostic and a screening mammogram on the same day. In this case, both codes should be reported, with the diagnostic code being listed first.
Another common challenge is when a woman has a breast symptom or abnormality that is evaluated with a mammogram, but the results are inconclusive. In this case, the diagnostic code should be used, but it should be reported with a “7” or “8” qualifier to indicate that the results are inconclusive.
Bilateral vs. Unilateral Mammograms
Another important consideration when coding for mammograms is whether the procedure is bilateral or unilateral. A bilateral mammogram is a procedure in which both breasts are imaged, while a unilateral mammogram is a procedure in which only one breast is imaged.
When coding for bilateral mammograms, the appropriate bilateral code should be used. When coding for unilateral mammograms, the appropriate unilateral code should be used.
Additional Services
Lastly, it’s essential to be aware of any additional services that may be performed in conjunction with a mammogram. These services may include breast ultrasound, breast MRI, or biopsy. When these additional services are performed, the appropriate codes should be reported in addition to the code for the mammogram.
Conclusion
Mammogram coding in ICD-10 can be complex,
Updated 2/28/23