How To Use CPT Code 0394T

CPT 0394T describes a high dose rate electronic brachytherapy procedure used for the treatment of skin cancer. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0394T?

CPT 0394T can be used to describe a high dose rate electronic brachytherapy procedure that involves the application of a minute X-ray source to the skin surface to treat skin cancer. This code includes the basic dosimetry, or dose calculation, of the radiation to be delivered to the tumor site. It should be reported for each fraction or portion of the planned total dose that is delivered.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0394T is: ‘High dose rate electronic brachytherapy, skin surface application, per fraction, includes basic dosimetry, when performed.’

3. Procedure

1. In this procedure, the healthcare provider attaches an X-ray generator to the delivery application device and places shielding as needed.
2. The provider calculates the dose based on the type and stage of the skin cancer being treated.
3. Using the control panel, the provider sets the prescribed dose and activates the X-ray generator to deliver the radiation directly to the tumor cells on the skin surface.
4. The treatment usually lasts less than an hour.
5. After the treatment is complete, the provider removes the X-ray source.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0394T is used for the treatment of skin cancer using high dose rate electronic brachytherapy. It should not be reported in conjunction with other codes related to radiation treatment or dosimetry. If the provider treats tumors on sites other than the skin, a different code should be used.

5. When to use CPT code 0394T

CPT code 0394T should be used when a healthcare provider performs a high dose rate electronic brachytherapy procedure for the treatment of skin cancer. It should be reported for each fraction or portion of the planned total dose that is delivered.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0394T, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Type and stage of the skin cancer being treated
• Prescribed dose and dose calculation
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Details of the treatment, including the use of an X-ray generator and any shielding
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0394T, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for high dose rate electronic brachytherapy for skin cancer treatment. Do not report this code in conjunction with other codes related to radiation treatment or dosimetry. It is important to check with Medicare or other payers to determine their coverage policies for this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0394T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2016. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs a high dose rate electronic brachytherapy procedure on a patient with skin cancer on their face.
2. Using CPT code 0394T, a provider delivers a fraction of the planned total dose of radiation to a patient with skin cancer on their arm.
3. A healthcare provider uses high dose rate electronic brachytherapy to treat skin cancer on a patient’s leg, reporting CPT code 0394T for each fraction of the treatment.
4. For a patient with skin cancer on their back, a provider performs a high dose rate electronic brachytherapy procedure and bills using CPT code 0394T.
5. A healthcare provider uses CPT code 0394T to report a high dose rate electronic brachytherapy procedure for the treatment of skin cancer on a patient’s chest.
6. Using CPT code 0394T, a provider delivers a fraction of the planned total dose of radiation to a patient with skin cancer on their scalp.
7. A healthcare provider performs a high dose rate electronic brachytherapy procedure on a patient with skin cancer on their neck, reporting CPT code 0394T for each fraction of the treatment.
8. For a patient with skin cancer on their leg, a provider uses high dose rate electronic brachytherapy and bills using CPT code 0394T.
9. A healthcare provider uses CPT code 0394T to report a high dose rate electronic brachytherapy procedure for the treatment of skin cancer on a patient’s arm.
10. Using CPT code 0394T, a provider delivers a fraction of the planned total dose of radiation to a patient with skin cancer on their face.