How To Use HCPCS Code A4212

HCPCS code A4212 describes a non-coring needle or stylet with or without a catheter. This code is used to identify a specific medical supply that is commonly used in various medical procedures. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code A4212, 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 A4212?

HCPCS code A4212 is a specific code used to identify a non-coring needle or stylet with or without a catheter. This code is essential for medical coders and billers to accurately document and bill for the use of this medical supply.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code A4212 is “Non-coring needle or stylet with or without catheter.” The short description for this code is “Non coring needle or stylet.”

3. Procedure

1. The procedure for using HCPCS code A4212 involves the insertion of a non-coring needle or stylet into the patient’s body. This needle or stylet may or may not be accompanied by a catheter.
2. The healthcare provider carefully selects the appropriate size and type of non-coring needle or stylet based on the specific medical procedure and patient’s needs.
3. The provider then sterilizes the needle or stylet and prepares the patient for the procedure.
4. Using proper technique, the provider inserts the needle or stylet into the desired location, ensuring accurate placement.
5. If a catheter is included, the provider may also insert the catheter into the patient’s body through the needle or stylet.
6. Once the procedure is complete, the needle or stylet, along with the catheter if applicable, is removed from the patient’s body.

4. When to use HCPCS code A4212

HCPCS code A4212 should be used when a non-coring needle or stylet is utilized in a medical procedure. This code is applicable when the needle or stylet is used alone or in conjunction with a catheter. It is important to ensure that the documentation accurately reflects the use of this specific medical supply to support the billing of HCPCS code A4212.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code A4212, healthcare providers must ensure that the necessary documentation is in place to support the use of this code. This may include the procedure notes, medical records, and any other relevant documentation. It is crucial to accurately document the use of the non-coring needle or stylet, including any accompanying catheter if applicable, to justify the billing of HCPCS code A4212.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code A4212 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1993. 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 has remained unchanged since its inception.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

Medicare and other insurance providers may cover the use of HCPCS code A4212, subject to their specific coverage policies and guidelines. The pricing indicator code for this code is 57, which indicates that it is priced by other carriers. The multiple pricing indicator code is A, which means it is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. It is important to verify the coverage and reimbursement policies of the specific insurance provider before billing for HCPCS code A4212.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code A4212 should be billed:

1. A patient undergoes a lumbar puncture procedure, and a non-coring needle is used for the collection of cerebrospinal fluid.
2. A healthcare provider performs a bone marrow biopsy and utilizes a non-coring needle to extract a sample from the patient’s bone marrow.
3. During a central venous catheter insertion, a non-coring needle is used to access the patient’s central vein for catheter placement.
4. A patient requires a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line, and a non-coring needle is used to guide the catheter into the appropriate vein.
5. During a paracentesis procedure, a non-coring needle is used to drain fluid from the patient’s abdominal cavity.