How To Use HCPCS Code A9577

HCPCS code A9577 describes the injection of gadobenate dimeglumine, also known as Multihance. This code is used to identify the administration of this contrast agent during diagnostic radiology procedures. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code A9577, 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 A9577?

HCPCS code A9577 is used to identify the injection of gadobenate dimeglumine, a contrast agent commonly known as Multihance. This code specifically refers to the per milliliter administration of the injection. It is important to note that HCPCS codes are used for reporting medical procedures and services, and A9577 is specifically used for diagnostic radiology procedures involving the administration of Multihance.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code A9577 is “Injection, gadobenate dimeglumine (multihance), per ml.” This description accurately represents the purpose of this code, which is to identify the administration of Multihance contrast agent during medical procedures.

3. Procedure

1. The procedure for HCPCS code A9577 involves the administration of gadobenate dimeglumine, also known as Multihance, through injection.
2. The healthcare provider will prepare the injection by calculating the appropriate dosage based on the patient’s weight and the specific diagnostic radiology procedure being performed.
3. The provider will then administer the injection intravenously, typically through a vein in the patient’s arm or hand.
4. It is important for the provider to ensure proper aseptic technique during the injection process to minimize the risk of infection.
5. After the injection, the provider will monitor the patient for any immediate adverse reactions or side effects.

4. When to use HCPCS code A9577

HCPCS code A9577 should be used when the healthcare provider administers Multihance contrast agent during a diagnostic radiology procedure. This code is specifically for the per milliliter administration of the injection. It is important to review the specific guidelines and requirements of the payer or insurance company to determine if the use of Multihance and billing with HCPCS code A9577 is appropriate for the particular procedure being performed.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for the administration of Multihance using HCPCS code A9577, healthcare providers need to ensure accurate and complete documentation. The documentation should include the patient’s medical record, the specific diagnostic radiology procedure performed, the dosage of Multihance administered, and any relevant clinical findings or observations. It is also important to follow the billing guidelines and requirements of the payer or insurance company to ensure proper reimbursement.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code A9577 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 2008. 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 suggests that the code has remained unchanged since its introduction.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

The coverage of HCPCS code A9577 by Medicare and other insurance providers may vary. It is important to review the specific guidelines and policies of the payer or insurance company to determine if the administration of Multihance using this code is covered. The pricing indicator code for A9577 is 51, which indicates that it is classified as a drug. The multiple pricing indicator code is A, which means it is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code A9577 should be billed:

1. Example 1: A patient undergoes an MRI scan with contrast using Multihance. The healthcare provider administers 20 milliliters of Multihance during the procedure. HCPCS code A9577 should be used to bill for the administration of the contrast agent.
2. Example 2: A patient undergoes a CT scan with contrast using Multihance. The healthcare provider administers 15 milliliters of Multihance during the procedure. HCPCS code A9577 should be used to bill for the administration of the contrast agent.
3. Example 3: A patient undergoes an angiography procedure with contrast using Multihance. The healthcare provider administers 30 milliliters of Multihance during the procedure. HCPCS code A9577 should be used to bill for the administration of the contrast agent.
4. Example 4: A patient undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) with contrast using Multihance. The healthcare provider administers 25 milliliters of Multihance during the procedure. HCPCS code A9577 should be used to bill for the administration of the contrast agent.
5. Example 5: A patient undergoes a myelography procedure with contrast using Multihance. The healthcare provider administers 10 milliliters of Multihance during the procedure. HCPCS code A9577 should be used to bill for the administration of the contrast agent.