How To Use CPT Code 71047

CPT 71047 describes the radiologic examination of the chest using a minimum of three 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 71047?

CPT 71047 can be used to describe the radiologic examination of the chest. This code is used when the provider performs a minimum of three radiological views of the chest to assess conditions affecting the chest, its contents, and nearby structures.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 71047 is: ‘Radiologic examination, chest; 3 views.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider positions the patient to focus the X-ray beam on the chest.
2. The patient remains still to prevent blurring of the image.
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 visualize the chest, its contents, and nearby structures, allowing for the assessment of various conditions.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 71047 is performed when the provider needs to assess conditions affecting the chest, its contents, and nearby structures. This procedure is typically used for diagnostic purposes and may be ordered for patients with symptoms or suspected abnormalities in the chest area. The provider must perform a minimum of three radiological views of the chest to qualify for this code.

5. When to use CPT code 71047

CPT code 71047 should be used when the provider performs a radiologic examination of the chest using a minimum of three views. This code is appropriate for diagnostic purposes and when assessing conditions affecting the chest, its contents, and nearby structures. It should not be used for single-view chest examinations (use CPT code 71045), two-view chest examinations (use CPT code 71046), or examinations with four or more views (use CPT code 71048).

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 71047, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the radiologic examination of the chest
• Number and types of views performed
• Date and time of the examination
• Any additional findings or observations
• Signature of the provider performing the examination

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 71047, ensure that the provider performs a minimum of three radiological views of the chest. If only the physician’s interpretation is being reported, append modifier 26 to the radiology code. If only the technical component is being reported, append modifier TC to the radiology code. However, payer policies may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC. Do not append a professional or technical modifier when reporting a global service where one provider renders both components. It is important to note that CPT code 71047 should not be reported with other codes such as CPT codes 71045, 71046, or 71048.

8. Historical information

CPT 71047 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 provider performing a radiologic examination of the chest using three views to assess a patient with suspected pneumonia.
2. A radiologist conducting a chest X-ray with three views to evaluate a patient with a history of lung cancer.
3. A physician ordering a radiologic examination of the chest with three views to investigate a patient’s persistent cough.
4. A pulmonologist performing a chest X-ray with three views to assess a patient with shortness of breath.
5. A primary care physician ordering a radiologic examination of the chest with three views to evaluate a patient with chest pain.
6. A provider conducting a chest X-ray with three views to assess a patient with a suspected rib fracture.
7. A radiologist performing a radiologic examination of the chest with three views to evaluate a patient with a suspected pneumothorax.
8. A pulmonologist ordering a chest X-ray with three views to assess a patient with a chronic cough.
9. A physician conducting a radiologic examination of the chest with three views to evaluate a patient with a suspected pulmonary embolism.
10. A primary care provider ordering a chest X-ray with three views to assess a patient with a persistent wheezing.