How To Use HCPCS Code B4189

HCPCS code B4189 describes the enteral feeding supply kit for syringe feeding, per day. This code includes various components such as feeding/flushing syringe, administration set tubing, dressings, and tape. It falls under the category of parenteral and enteral nutrition, and it is used to bill for the supplies needed for syringe feeding in enteral nutrition therapy.

1. What is HCPCS B4189?

HCPCS code B4189 is a specific code used to identify the enteral feeding supply kit for syringe feeding, per day. It is important to note that this code is only applicable for syringe feeding and not for other methods of enteral feeding. The code is used to accurately bill for the supplies required for enteral nutrition therapy using syringe feeding.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code B4189 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 “Parenteral sol amino acid &.”

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 feeding prescription and ensure that syringe feeding is the appropriate method for their enteral nutrition therapy.
3. Administer the enteral nutrition using the syringe feeding method, following the healthcare provider’s instructions and the patient’s individualized feeding plan.
4. Monitor the patient’s response to the enteral nutrition therapy and make any necessary adjustments to the feeding regimen.
5. Document the administration of enteral nutrition using syringe feeding in the patient’s medical record, including the date, time, amount administered, and any relevant observations or complications.

4. When to use HCPCS code B4189

HCPCS code B4189 should be used when providing enteral nutrition therapy using the syringe feeding method. It is important to ensure that this method is appropriate for the patient’s specific needs and that it is prescribed by a healthcare provider. This code should not be used for other methods of enteral feeding, such as gravity feeding or pump-assisted feeding.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code B4189, healthcare providers need to document the administration of enteral nutrition using syringe feeding in the patient’s medical record. This documentation should include the date, time, amount administered, and any relevant observations or complications. Additionally, the healthcare provider should ensure that the enteral feeding supply kit used includes the necessary components mentioned in the code description.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code B4189 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1988. It has been effective since January 01, 2002. 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 remained consistent since its addition to the system.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code B4189 is covered by Medicare and other insurance providers. It falls under the pricing indicator code 39, which indicates that it is related to parenteral and enteral nutrition. The multiple pricing indicator code A signifies that this code is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. Healthcare providers should follow the specific billing guidelines provided by Medicare or the respective insurance provider to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code B4189 should be billed:

1. A patient with a medical condition requiring enteral nutrition therapy is prescribed syringe feeding as the method of administration. The healthcare provider prepares the enteral feeding supply kit and administers the enteral nutrition using syringe feeding.
2. A home healthcare nurse visits a patient who is unable to consume food orally and requires enteral nutrition. The nurse prepares the enteral feeding supply kit and administers the enteral nutrition using syringe feeding.
3. A patient is admitted to a hospital for a surgical procedure and is unable to consume food orally during the recovery period. The healthcare team prepares the enteral feeding supply kit and administers the enteral nutrition using syringe feeding.
4. A long-term care facility provides enteral nutrition therapy to residents who are unable to consume food orally. The facility prepares the enteral feeding supply kit and administers the enteral nutrition using syringe feeding.
5. A patient receives enteral nutrition therapy at an outpatient clinic. The healthcare provider prepares the enteral feeding supply kit and administers the enteral nutrition using syringe feeding.