How To Use HCPCS Code A6244

HCPCS code A6244 describes a hydrogel dressing used as a wound cover. This sterile pad is designed for wounds larger than 48 square inches and does not have an adhesive border. It is used to provide a moist environment for wound healing and to promote the removal of necrotic tissue.

1. What is HCPCS A6244?

HCPCS code A6244 is used to identify a specific type of hydrogel dressing that is used as a wound cover. This code is specifically for dressings that are larger than 48 square inches and do not have an adhesive border. It is important to use this code accurately to ensure proper reimbursement and documentation.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code A6244 is “Hydrogel dressing, wound cover, sterile, pad size more than 48 sq. in., without adhesive border, each dressing.” The short description is “Hydrogel drg >48 in w/o bdr.”

3. Procedure

1. Cleanse the wound using appropriate wound care techniques.
2. Ensure the wound is free from debris and necrotic tissue.
3. Apply the hydrogel dressing to the wound, ensuring full coverage.
4. Secure the dressing in place using appropriate medical tape or bandages.
5. Monitor the wound regularly for signs of infection or other complications.
6. Change the dressing as needed, following healthcare provider instructions.

4. When to use HCPCS code A6244

HCPCS code A6244 should be used when documenting and billing for the use of a hydrogel dressing as a wound cover. This code is specifically for dressings that are larger than 48 square inches and do not have an adhesive border. It is important to accurately document the size and type of dressing used to ensure proper reimbursement.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code A6244, healthcare providers should ensure that the documentation supports the medical necessity of using a hydrogel dressing as a wound cover. This may include documenting the size of the wound, the presence of necrotic tissue, and the need for a moist wound healing environment. It is also important to include the quantity of dressings used in the billing documentation.

6. Historical information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code A6244 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1997. 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 been in use since its addition and has not undergone any significant changes.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code A6244 is eligible for coverage 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 pricing floors and ceilings. The multiple pricing indicator code is A, which means it is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. Providers should verify coverage and reimbursement rates with individual payers.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code A6244 should be billed:

1. A patient with a large surgical wound on their abdomen receives a hydrogel dressing that covers an area of 60 square inches.
2. A diabetic patient with a foot ulcer requires a hydrogel dressing that covers an area of 50 square inches.
3. A burn patient with extensive burns on their legs receives hydrogel dressings that cover a total area of 100 square inches.
4. A patient with a pressure ulcer on their sacrum requires a hydrogel dressing that covers an area of 70 square inches.
5. A patient with a traumatic wound on their arm receives a hydrogel dressing that covers an area of 55 square inches.