How To Use CPT Code 71046

CPT 71046 describes the radiologic examination of the chest using a minimum of two views. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 71046?

CPT 71046 can be used to describe the radiologic examination of the chest using a minimum of two views. This code is used when a healthcare provider performs this diagnostic procedure to assess conditions affecting the chest, its contents, and nearby structures.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 71046 is: ‘Radiologic examination, chest; 2 views.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider positions the patient in a way that allows the X-ray beam to focus on the chest.
2. The patient remains still during the examination to ensure clear images.
3. An X-ray machine sends a beam of radiation through the chest area, and a computer or special film records the image.
4. The provider may perform different views of the chest, such as anteroposterior, posteroanterior, lateral, right and left oblique, decubitus, lordotic, and expiratory views.
5. The images obtained help the provider assess the condition of the chest, its contents, and nearby structures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 71046 is used when a healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the chest using a minimum of two views. This procedure is typically done to assess conditions affecting the chest, such as lung diseases, heart conditions, and injuries. The provider must position the patient correctly and obtain clear images for accurate interpretation.

5. When to use CPT code 71046

CPT code 71046 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the chest using a minimum of two views. This code is appropriate for assessing various conditions affecting the chest, including lung diseases, heart conditions, and injuries. It should not be used for single-view chest examinations or examinations with more than two views.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 71046, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the examination and the specific condition being assessed
• Number and types of views obtained
• Date and time of the examination
• Any additional findings or observations
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 71046, ensure that the healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the chest using a minimum of two views. Use modifier 26 if reporting only the physician’s interpretation, and use modifier TC if reporting only the technical component. If the provider performs a single-view chest examination, use CPT code 71045. For three views, use CPT code 71047, and for four or more views, use CPT code 71048.

8. Historical information

CPT 71046 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2018. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the chest using two views to assess a patient with suspected pneumonia.
2. A patient with a history of heart disease undergoes a radiologic examination of the chest using two views to evaluate the condition of their heart and lungs.
3. A trauma patient receives a radiologic examination of the chest using two views to assess for any injuries or fractures.
4. A healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the chest using two views to monitor the progress of a patient with a chronic lung condition.
5. A patient with a persistent cough undergoes a radiologic examination of the chest using two views to investigate the cause of their symptoms.
6. A healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the chest using two views to assess the placement of a medical device in the patient’s chest.
7. A patient with a history of smoking undergoes a radiologic examination of the chest using two views to screen for lung cancer.
8. A healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the chest using two views to assess the progression of a patient’s pulmonary fibrosis.
9. A patient with chest pain receives a radiologic examination using two views to rule out any cardiac abnormalities.
10. A healthcare provider performs a radiologic examination of the chest using two views to assess the size and shape of a patient’s heart.