How To Use HCPCS Code A4771

HCPCS code A4771 describes a serum clotting time tube used for dialysis. This code is used to identify the specific supply that is necessary for measuring the clotting time of a patient’s serum during dialysis procedures. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code A4771, 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 A4771?

HCPCS code A4771 is used to identify a serum clotting time tube that is utilized during dialysis procedures. This code is specific to the supply and is not applicable for other purposes. It is important for medical coders to accurately assign this code when reporting dialysis services that involve the use of a serum clotting time tube.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code A4771 is “Serum clotting time tube, for dialysis, per 50.” The short description is “Serum clotting time tube.” These descriptions provide a clear understanding of the purpose and usage of this specific supply.

3. Procedure

1. Ensure that the patient is prepared for the dialysis procedure.
2. Select the appropriate serum clotting time tube.
3. Perform the dialysis procedure as per the standard protocol.
4. During the procedure, collect the patient’s serum sample using the clotting time tube.
5. Follow the necessary steps to measure the clotting time of the serum.
6. Record the results accurately in the patient’s medical documentation.

4. When to use HCPCS code A4771

HCPCS code A4771 should be used when reporting dialysis procedures that involve the use of a serum clotting time tube. It is important to ensure that the specific supply is documented and coded correctly to accurately reflect the services provided during the dialysis procedure.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

Healthcare providers should document the usage of the serum clotting time tube during the dialysis procedure. This documentation should include the specific details of the procedure, such as the date, time, and duration of the dialysis, as well as the results of the clotting time measurement. When billing for the service, the HCPCS code A4771 should be included on the claim form to indicate the usage of the serum clotting time tube.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code A4771 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1986. 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 inclusion in the coding system.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code A4771 is covered by Medicare and other insurance providers. However, it is important to note that the pricing indicator code for this code is 00, which means that the service is not separately priced by Part B. This indicates that the cost of the serum clotting time tube is bundled or included in the overall payment for the dialysis procedure. Therefore, healthcare providers should ensure that they follow the appropriate billing guidelines and submit the necessary documentation to receive reimbursement for the supply.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code A4771 should be billed:

1. A patient undergoes a dialysis procedure, and the healthcare provider uses a serum clotting time tube to measure the clotting time of the patient’s serum.
2. During a dialysis session, the healthcare provider realizes that the patient’s serum clotting time needs to be monitored, and they utilize a serum clotting time tube for this purpose.
3. A patient with a history of clotting disorders requires regular dialysis, and the healthcare provider uses a serum clotting time tube to monitor their clotting time during the procedure.
4. As part of a research study on dialysis procedures, the healthcare provider collects serum samples from patients using a serum clotting time tube to measure the clotting time.
5. A patient with a known clotting disorder undergoes a dialysis procedure, and the healthcare provider uses a serum clotting time tube to ensure that the procedure is performed safely and effectively.