How To Use HCPCS Code A6222

HCPCS code A6222 describes a specific type of gauze dressing that is impregnated with a substance other than water, normal saline, or hydrogel. This sterile dressing is designed for use on wounds or injuries that are 16 square inches or smaller, and it does not have an adhesive border. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code A6222, 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 A6222?

HCPCS code A6222 is used to identify a specific type of gauze dressing that is impregnated with a substance other than water, normal saline, or hydrogel. This dressing is sterile and comes in a pad size of 16 square inches or less. It does not have an adhesive border. This code is used to accurately document and bill for the use of this particular dressing in medical procedures and treatments.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code A6222 is “Gauze, impregnated with other than water, normal saline, or hydrogel, sterile, pad size 16 sq. in. or less, without adhesive border, each dressing.” The short description of this code is “Gauze <=16 in no w/sal w/o b."

3. Procedure

1. Prepare the wound or injury site by cleaning it thoroughly.
2. Open the package containing the HCPCS code A6222 dressing.
3. Apply the dressing directly to the wound or injury, ensuring that it covers the entire area.
4. If necessary, secure the dressing in place using medical tape or other appropriate means.
5. Dispose of any used materials and properly clean and sanitize the area.

4. When to use HCPCS code A6222

HCPCS code A6222 should be used when a healthcare provider applies a gauze dressing that is impregnated with a substance other than water, normal saline, or hydrogel to a wound or injury that is 16 square inches or smaller. This code is not applicable for dressings with adhesive borders or those that are impregnated with water, normal saline, or hydrogel. It is important to accurately document and code the use of this specific dressing to ensure proper reimbursement and tracking of medical supplies.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code A6222, healthcare providers should ensure that the following documentation is included:

• Date of service
• Description of the procedure or treatment
• Quantity of dressings used
• Documentation supporting the medical necessity of the dressing

Providers should also follow the appropriate billing guidelines and coding conventions set forth by Medicare or other insurance carriers to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code A6222 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1997. It has an effective date of January 01, 2009. 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 A6222 is covered by Medicare and other insurance providers. The pricing indicator code for this code is 35, which indicates that it falls under the category of surgical dressings and is subject to price floors and ceilings. The multiple pricing indicator code for A6222 is A, which means it is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. Providers should refer to the Medicare Carriers Manual Reference Section Number 2079 for specific guidelines and instructions on billing and reimbursement for this code.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code A6222 should be billed:

1. A patient with a 10 square inch surgical wound receives a gauze dressing impregnated with a specialized antimicrobial substance.
2. A healthcare provider applies a non-adhesive gauze dressing impregnated with a hemostatic agent to a small laceration on a patient’s arm.
3. A burn patient requires a sterile gauze dressing impregnated with a cooling gel for a 12 square inch area of their body.
4. A post-operative patient has a surgical incision that measures 8 square inches and receives a gauze dressing impregnated with a wound healing substance.
5. A patient with a chronic wound receives a non-adhesive gauze dressing impregnated with a silver-based antimicrobial agent for a 6 square inch area.