How To Use HCPCS Code B4148

HCPCS code B4148 describes the enteral feeding supply kit for syringe feeding on a daily basis. This code includes various components such as feeding/flushing syringe, administration set tubing, dressings, and tape. It is important for medical coders to understand the specific usage and guidelines for this code in order to accurately bill for the services provided.

1. What is HCPCS B4148?

HCPCS code B4148 is used to identify the enteral feeding supply kit for syringe feeding on a daily basis. This code is specifically used for patients who require enteral feeding through a syringe. It is important to note that this code is not applicable for other methods of enteral feeding, such as tube feeding.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code B4148 is “Enteral feeding supply kit; syringe fed, per day, includes but not limited to feeding/flushing syringe, administration set tubing, dressings, tape.” The short description for this code is “Enteral feed elastomer daily.”

3. Procedure

1. Prepare the enteral feeding supply kit, ensuring that it includes a feeding/flushing syringe, administration set tubing, dressings, and tape.
2. Verify the patient’s eligibility for enteral feeding through a syringe.
3. Administer the enteral feed using the syringe and the provided administration set tubing.
4. Monitor the patient during the feeding process to ensure proper administration and any potential complications.
5. Document the details of the enteral feeding procedure, including the date, time, amount of feed administered, and any relevant observations or complications.

4. When to use HCPCS code B4148

HCPCS code B4148 should be used when a patient requires enteral feeding through a syringe on a daily basis. This code is specifically for patients who do not require tube feeding and instead rely on syringe feeding as their method of enteral nutrition. It is important to ensure that the patient meets the eligibility criteria for this specific method of enteral feeding before using this code.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code B4148, healthcare providers need to document the details of the enteral feeding procedure, including the date, time, amount of feed administered, and any relevant observations or complications. It is important to accurately document the use of the enteral feeding supply kit and the specific components provided to the patient. This documentation will support the medical necessity of the service and ensure proper reimbursement.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code B4148 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on October 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 for medical coders to stay updated on any future changes or revisions to this code.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code B4148 is covered by Medicare and other insurance providers. The pricing indicator code for this code is 39, which indicates that it falls under the category of parenteral and enteral nutrition. The multiple pricing indicator code is A, which means it is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. Healthcare providers should follow the specific guidelines and reimbursement rates set by Medicare or other insurance providers when billing for this code.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code B4148 should be billed:

1. A patient with a medical condition that prevents them from consuming food orally requires enteral feeding through a syringe on a daily basis.
2. A patient undergoing a specific medical treatment that requires enteral nutrition delivered through a syringe.
3. A patient recovering from surgery who is unable to consume food orally and requires enteral feeding through a syringe for a temporary period.
4. A patient with a chronic illness that affects their ability to eat normally and requires enteral feeding through a syringe as a long-term solution.
5. A patient with a gastrointestinal disorder that affects their ability to absorb nutrients and requires enteral feeding through a syringe for nutritional support.