How To Use HCPCS Code A6590

HCPCS code A6590 describes external urinary catheters that are disposable and equipped with wicking material. These catheters are specifically designed for use with a suction pump and are typically used on a monthly basis. In this article, we will delve into the details of HCPCS code A6590, 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 A6590?

HCPCS code A6590 is used to identify external urinary catheters that are disposable and come with wicking material. These catheters are specifically designed for use with a suction pump and are typically used on a monthly basis. It is important to note that this code is specific to urinary catheters used in conjunction with a suction pump and should not be used for other types of catheters or supplies.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code A6590 is “External urinary catheters; disposable, with wicking material, for use with suction pump, per month.” This description accurately reflects the purpose and usage of the code. The short description for this code is “Urinary cath disp suc pump.”

3. Procedure

1. Ensure that the patient is in a comfortable position and has access to the necessary supplies.
2. Prepare the suction pump by ensuring it is clean and in proper working condition.
3. Open the package containing the disposable urinary catheter.
4. Inspect the catheter for any damage or defects. Do not use a catheter that appears to be damaged.
5. Apply a water-based lubricant to the tip of the catheter to facilitate insertion.
6. Gently insert the catheter into the patient’s urethra, following proper hygiene practices and maintaining a sterile environment.
7. Secure the catheter in place using adhesive or other appropriate methods.
8. Connect the other end of the catheter to the suction pump.
9. Ensure that the suction pump is set to the appropriate level and functioning correctly.
10. Monitor the patient and the catheter for any signs of discomfort, leakage, or other issues.
11. Replace the catheter on a monthly basis or as needed, following proper disposal procedures.

4. When to use HCPCS code A6590

HCPCS code A6590 should be used when providing external urinary catheters that are disposable and equipped with wicking material for use with a suction pump. It is important to ensure that the specific criteria for this code are met before using it for billing purposes. This code should not be used for other types of urinary catheters or supplies that do not meet the specified requirements.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code A6590, healthcare providers need to ensure that the following documentation is in order:

• Medical records indicating the medical necessity for the use of a disposable urinary catheter with wicking material and a suction pump.
• Documentation of the patient’s condition and the need for ongoing catheterization.
• Proof of the patient’s eligibility for the use of this specific type of catheter.
• Itemized billing statement indicating the quantity of catheters provided per month.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code A6590 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on April 01, 2023. As of this date, there have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code. It is important to stay updated with any future changes or revisions to this code.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code A6590 is covered by Medicare and other insurance providers. The pricing indicator code 34 indicates that this code falls under DME supplies, with pricing subject to floors and ceilings. The multiple pricing indicator code A signifies that this code is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. It is important to verify coverage and reimbursement rates with specific payers to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code A6590 should be billed:

1. A patient with a chronic urinary condition requires monthly disposable urinary catheters with wicking material for use with a suction pump.
2. A home healthcare agency provides a monthly supply of disposable urinary catheters with wicking material to a patient who relies on a suction pump for urinary management.
3. A nursing facility orders a monthly shipment of disposable urinary catheters with wicking material for multiple residents who use suction pumps for urinary drainage.
4. A durable medical equipment supplier delivers a monthly quantity of disposable urinary catheters with wicking material to a patient’s home, as prescribed by their healthcare provider.
5. A urology clinic provides a monthly supply of disposable urinary catheters with wicking material to patients who require the use of a suction pump for urinary drainage.