How To Use CPT Code 90644

CPT 90644 describes the administration of a combination vaccine that protects against specific strains of meningococcus and Haemophilus influenzae B. 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 90644?

CPT 90644 can be used to describe the administration of a combination vaccine that protects against specific strains of meningococcus and Haemophilus influenzae B. This vaccine is given to infants between 6 weeks and 18 months of age as part of a multiple dose schedule. The vaccine is injected into a muscle and helps protect against meningitis, a serious disease that affects the brain and spinal cord.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 90644 is: ‘Meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine (Hib-MenCY), 4 dose schedule, when administered to children 6 weeks-18 months of age, for intramuscular use.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the vaccine administration.
2. The provider administers the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine, into the muscle of the infant.
3. The provider counsels the family and provides instructions and precautions before administering the vaccine.
4. The vaccine is given as part of a multiple dose schedule, with additional doses administered at specific intervals.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 90644 is used for infants between 6 weeks and 18 months of age who require the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine. This vaccine is specifically designed to protect against meningitis caused by these specific strains of bacteria. The vaccine is administered by a healthcare provider and is given as part of a multiple dose schedule.

5. When to use CPT code 90644

CPT code 90644 should be used when administering the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine to infants between 6 weeks and 18 months of age. It is important to follow the recommended schedule for administering the vaccine to ensure maximum effectiveness.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 90644, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s age and eligibility for the vaccine
• Date of administration
• Specific vaccine administered
• Route of administration (intramuscular)
• Any counseling or instructions provided to the family
• Signature of the healthcare provider administering the vaccine

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 90644, ensure that the vaccine is administered to an eligible patient between 6 weeks and 18 months of age. Follow the recommended schedule for administering the vaccine and document all necessary information. It is important to report the vaccine administration separately from the actual vaccine and any office visit. Be aware of any specific guidelines or requirements from insurance providers or payers.

8. Historical information

CPT 90644 has undergone several changes since its addition to the Current Procedural Terminology system. The most recent change occurred on January 1, 2016, when the age range for administration was expanded to include children between 2 and 18 months of age. Prior to that, the code was added on January 1, 2011, and underwent additional changes in 2012 and 2016.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider administers the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine to a 6-month-old infant as part of the recommended schedule.
2. An 8-week-old infant receives the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine during a routine check-up with their pediatrician.
3. A 12-month-old child receives the final dose of the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine as part of their immunization schedule.
4. A healthcare provider administers the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine to a 15-month-old toddler who missed a previous dose.
5. A 4-month-old infant receives the first dose of the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine during a visit to the pediatrician.
6. A healthcare provider administers the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine to a 9-month-old infant who will be traveling to an area with a higher risk of meningococcal disease.
7. An 11-month-old child receives the third dose of the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine as part of their immunization schedule.
8. A healthcare provider administers the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine to a 7-month-old infant who is starting daycare.