How To Use HCPCS Code A0200

HCPCS code A0200 describes non-emergency transportation services that include ancillary services such as lodging escort. This code is used to identify transportation provided to patients who require assistance in reaching their healthcare appointments or facilities but do not have an urgent medical condition. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code A0200, including its official description, procedure, when to use it, billing guidelines, historical information, Medicare and insurance coverage, and provide examples of when this code should be billed.

1. What is HCPCS A0200?

HCPCS code A0200 is used to identify non-emergency transportation services provided by a mini-bus, mountain area transports, or other transportation systems. It is important to note that this code is not applicable for emergency situations where immediate medical attention is required. Instead, it is used for patients who need assistance in reaching their healthcare appointments or facilities but do not have an urgent medical condition.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code A0200 is “Noner transport lodgng escrt.” This short description indicates that the code represents non-emergency transportation services that include ancillary services such as lodging escort.

3. Procedure

1. Patients who require non-emergency transportation services, such as those with mobility limitations or lack of access to transportation, are identified.
2. The healthcare provider or facility arranges for the appropriate transportation service, considering the patient’s specific needs and requirements.
3. The transportation service, which may involve a mini-bus, mountain area transports, or other transportation systems, is provided to the patient.
4. If necessary, a lodging escort may accompany the patient during the transportation to ensure their safety and well-being.
5. Upon arrival at the healthcare appointment or facility, the patient is assisted in reaching their destination.

4. When to use HCPCS code A0200

HCPCS code A0200 should be used when a patient requires non-emergency transportation services and ancillary services such as lodging escort. It is important to ensure that the patient does not have an urgent medical condition that requires immediate attention. This code is typically used for patients who need assistance in reaching their healthcare appointments or facilities due to mobility limitations or lack of access to transportation.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for non-emergency transportation services with HCPCS code A0200, healthcare providers need to document the following:

• Medical necessity for the transportation services
• Details of the transportation service provided, including the mode of transportation (e.g., mini-bus, mountain area transports)
• Documentation of any ancillary services, such as lodging escort
• Patient’s specific needs and requirements that necessitate the use of non-emergency transportation

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code A0200 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1982. Since its addition, there have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code. This code falls under the type of service code D, which represents ambulance services.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code A0200 is not payable by Medicare, as indicated by the coverage code I, which means it is not payable by Medicare. The pricing indicator code for this code is 00, which indicates that the service is not separately priced by Part B. This means that the service is either not covered, bundled, or used by Part A only. The multiple pricing indicator code is 9, which means it is not applicable as HCPCS is not priced separately by Part B or the value is not established.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code A0200 should be billed:

1. A patient with a physical disability requires non-emergency transportation to a rehabilitation facility for therapy sessions.
2. An elderly patient living in a remote area needs transportation to a specialist’s office for a consultation.
3. A patient undergoing regular dialysis treatments requires transportation to and from the dialysis center.
4. A patient with a chronic illness needs transportation to a hospital for regular check-ups and follow-up appointments.
5. A patient recovering from surgery requires transportation to a rehabilitation center for post-operative therapy.