How To Use HCPCS Code A0384

HCPCS code A0384 describes the specialized service disposable supplies used for defibrillation in Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances and Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances in jurisdictions where defibrillation is permitted in BLS ambulances. This code is not payable by Medicare and has no maintenance actions. It was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1995, with an effective date of January 01, 2014. The service is not separately priced by Part B and falls under the Ambulance type of service code.

1. What is HCPCS A0384?

HCPCS code A0384 is used to identify the specialized service disposable supplies required for defibrillation in BLS ambulances and ALS ambulances in jurisdictions where defibrillation is permitted in BLS ambulances. These supplies are essential for providing life-saving interventions during emergency situations.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code A0384 is “BLS specialized service disposable supplies; defibrillation.” The short description is “BLS defibrillation supplies.”

3. Procedure

1. Ensure that the BLS ambulance or ALS ambulance is in a jurisdiction where defibrillation is permitted in BLS ambulances.
2. Prepare the defibrillator for use according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Apply the defibrillation pads or electrodes to the patient’s chest as per the appropriate placement guidelines.
4. Follow the prescribed protocols for delivering the appropriate electrical shock to the patient’s heart.
5. Monitor the patient’s response and provide additional interventions as necessary.
6. Dispose of the used disposable supplies safely and in accordance with the applicable regulations.

4. When to use HCPCS code A0384

HCPCS code A0384 should be used when providing defibrillation services in BLS ambulances and ALS ambulances in jurisdictions where defibrillation is permitted in BLS ambulances. It is important to ensure that the ambulance service is authorized to perform defibrillation procedures in the specific jurisdiction.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code A0384, healthcare providers should ensure that the following documentation is included:

• Documentation supporting the medical necessity of the defibrillation procedure.
• Documentation of the patient’s condition and response to the intervention.
• Documentation of the disposable supplies used during the procedure.
• Any additional documentation required by the payer or insurer.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code A0384 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1995. It has an effective date of January 01, 2014. There have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code A0384 is not payable by Medicare. It falls under the pricing indicator code 00, which means the service is not separately priced by Part B. The multiple pricing indicator code is 9, indicating that the code 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 scenarios where HCPCS code A0384 should be billed:

1. A BLS ambulance in a jurisdiction where defibrillation is permitted in BLS ambulances responds to a call for a patient experiencing cardiac arrest. The ambulance crew successfully performs defibrillation using the specialized disposable supplies described by HCPCS code A0384.
2. An ALS ambulance is dispatched to a scene where a patient is in ventricular fibrillation. The ALS crew utilizes the defibrillation supplies covered by HCPCS code A0384 to restore the patient’s normal heart rhythm.
3. A BLS ambulance in a jurisdiction where defibrillation is permitted in BLS ambulances is called to assist a patient with a history of cardiac arrhythmias. The ambulance crew uses the defibrillation supplies specified by HCPCS code A0384 to manage the patient’s condition during transport to the hospital.
4. An ALS ambulance is providing interfacility transport for a critically ill patient requiring continuous cardiac monitoring. The ambulance crew utilizes the defibrillation supplies covered by HCPCS code A0384 as part of the patient’s ongoing care during transport.
5. A BLS ambulance in a jurisdiction where defibrillation is permitted in BLS ambulances is dispatched to a scene where a patient is experiencing a suspected heart attack. The ambulance crew uses the defibrillation supplies described by HCPCS code A0384 as a precautionary measure while providing initial treatment and transport to the hospital.