CPT codes and reimbursement for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) screening

Medicare provides coverage of a one-time preventive ultrasound screening for the early detection of an AAA for eligible beneficiaries who meet the following criteria:

The beneficiary receives a referral for an ultrasound screening for AAA as a result of an IPPE;

The beneficiary receives a referral from a provider or supplier who is authorized to provide covered ultrasound diagnostic services;

The beneficiary has not been previously furnished an ultrasound screening for AAA under the Medicare Program; and The beneficiary is included in at least one of the following risk categories:

The beneficiary has a family history of AAAs

The beneficiary is a man 65 through 75 years of age who has smoked at least 100 cigarettes in his lifetime; or

The beneficiary manifests other risk factors in a beneficiary category recommended for ultrasound screening by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding AAAs,as specified by the Secretary of Health and Human Services through the national coverage determination process.

CPT / HCPCS Code for Ultrasound Screening for AAA

G0389 Ultrasound B-scan and/or real time with image documentation; for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening

Diagnosis Codes for Ultrasound Screening for AAA

V15.82 Personal history of tobacco use presenting hazards to health

V17.4 Family history of other cardiovascular disease

V81.2 Special screening for other and unspecified cardiovascular conditions

Reimbursement

Medicare provides coverage of ultrasound screening for AAA as a Medicare Part B benefit. For dates of service prior to January 1, 2010, the coinsurance or copayment applies for this benefit. The Medicare Part B deductible is waived. For dates of service on or after January 1, 2011, both the coinsurance or copayment and deductible are waived.

Also see 'Medicare Waiver of Co-insurance and Deductible (CY 2011 Updates) Complete list of CPT / HCPCS codes'.