How To Use HCPCS Code B4185

HCPCS code B4185 describes the enteral feeding supply kit for syringe feeding, which includes various components such as feeding/flushing syringe, administration set tubing, dressings, and tape. This code is used to identify the specific supplies needed for syringe feeding in enteral nutrition. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code B4185, including its official description, procedure, usage guidelines, billing requirements, historical information, and coverage by Medicare and insurance providers.

1. What is HCPCS B4185?

HCPCS code B4185 is used to identify the enteral feeding supply kit for syringe feeding. It specifically refers to the supplies required for administering enteral nutrition through syringe feeding. This code is essential for accurately documenting and billing for the specific supplies used in this procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code B4185 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 “Pn soln nos 10 grams lipids.”

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 enteral nutrition prescription and ensure that syringe feeding is the appropriate method for administration.
3. Cleanse the hands and wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
4. Assemble the enteral feeding supplies, ensuring that all components are sterile and in good condition.
5. Connect the administration set tubing to the feeding/flushing syringe.
6. Prepare the enteral nutrition solution according to the prescribed instructions.
7. Fill the feeding/flushing syringe with the enteral nutrition solution.
8. Administer the enteral nutrition solution to the patient through syringe feeding, following the prescribed rate and duration.
9. Monitor the patient during the feeding process for any adverse reactions or complications.
10. Document the procedure, including the date, time, amount of enteral nutrition administered, and any observations or interventions.

4. When to use HCPCS code B4185

HCPCS code B4185 should be used when providing enteral nutrition through syringe feeding. It is important to ensure that the patient meets the eligibility criteria for enteral nutrition and that syringe feeding is the appropriate method of administration. This code is not applicable for other methods of enteral nutrition delivery, such as tube feeding or oral intake.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code B4185, healthcare providers need to document the specific supplies used in the enteral feeding supply kit, including the feeding/flushing syringe, administration set tubing, dressings, and tape. The documentation should also include the date, time, and duration of the syringe feeding procedure. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports medical necessity and justifies the use of syringe feeding for enteral nutrition.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code B4185 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 2006. As of January 01, 2020, 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 falls under the pricing indicator code 39, which represents parenteral and enteral nutrition. It is not applicable for multiple pricing methodologies.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code B4185 is covered by Medicare and other insurance providers. The pricing indicator code 39 indicates that it is included in the reimbursement for parenteral and enteral nutrition. However, it is important to verify coverage with specific insurance plans and follow the billing guidelines provided by each payer.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code B4185 should be billed:

1. A patient with a medical condition requiring enteral nutrition receives syringe feeding using the enteral feeding supply kit.
2. A healthcare provider administers enteral nutrition through syringe feeding during a hospital stay.
3. A home healthcare nurse provides syringe feeding to a patient with a feeding tube using the enteral feeding supply kit.
4. A patient with dysphagia requires enteral nutrition and is unable to tolerate tube feeding, opting for syringe feeding instead.
5. A healthcare facility provides enteral nutrition through syringe feeding to a patient with a temporary inability to swallow.