Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the cost considerations and strategies for incorporating ultrasound (US) in a head and neck practice. Study design and setting: A retrospective chart review of office-based US procedures from 2001 to 2005 was completed at our academic medical center. Billing and coding for US and US guided fine needle aspiration (USFNA) were examined. Results: The appropriate CPT codes are 76536 for US and 76942 and 10022 for USFNA-related procedures. The USFNA codes should be used repeatedly for correct coding of biopsies from multiple sites. Cost (equipment) sharing between specialties is a potential strategy for office-based US incorporation. Conclusion: Based on practice volume, specific CPT coding, and Medicare reimbursements, office-based US equipment and certification costs could be offset in 1 year. Significance: Office-based US can be readily incorporated with significant benefits to patients. Billing and usage strategies were identified that would improve the economics of providing office-based US.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 884-888 |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| Journal | Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery |
| Volume | 135 |
| Issue number | 6 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Dec 2006 |
| Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Surgery
- Otorhinolaryngology