How To Use HCPCS Code C8900

HCPCS code C8900 describes a specific medical procedure known as magnetic resonance angiography with contrast for the abdomen. This code is used to identify and bill for the administration of contrast material during an MRI scan to visualize the blood vessels in the abdominal area. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code C8900, including its official description, procedure, usage guidelines, billing requirements, historical information, and coverage by Medicare and other insurance providers.

1. What is HCPCS C8900?

HCPCS code C8900 is a unique alphanumeric code that is used to identify the specific medical procedure of magnetic resonance angiography with contrast for the abdomen. This procedure involves the use of contrast material during an MRI scan to obtain detailed images of the blood vessels in the abdominal area. It is important to note that this code is specific to the administration of contrast material for abdominal MRIs and should not be used for other types of imaging or procedures.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code C8900 is “Magnetic resonance angiography with contrast, abdomen.” This description accurately reflects the purpose and scope of the procedure. The short description for this code is “Parenteral supp not othrws c,” which indicates that this code is used for parenteral supplementation that is not otherwise classified.

3. Procedure

1. The procedure of HCPCS code C8900 begins with the patient being positioned on the MRI table.
2. The healthcare provider will then administer a contrast material intravenously to the patient.
3. Once the contrast material has been administered, the MRI scan of the abdomen will be performed.
4. The MRI machine uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the blood vessels in the abdominal area.
5. The images obtained from the MRI scan will be used by the healthcare provider to evaluate the condition of the blood vessels and diagnose any abnormalities or diseases.

4. When to use HCPCS code C8900

HCPCS code C8900 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a magnetic resonance angiography with contrast specifically for the abdomen. This code is applicable when contrast material is administered intravenously during an MRI scan to visualize the blood vessels in the abdominal area. It is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the official description and purpose of HCPCS code C8900 to accurately bill for the service.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code C8900, healthcare providers should ensure that the following documentation requirements are met:

• Documentation of the medical necessity for the procedure, including the reason for performing the magnetic resonance angiography with contrast for the abdomen.
• Documentation of the administration of contrast material, including the type and amount administered.
• Documentation of the MRI scan of the abdomen, including the images obtained and any findings or diagnoses made based on the scan.

Providers should also follow the billing guidelines set forth by Medicare and other insurance providers to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement for the service.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code C8900 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1985. 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 inception.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code C8900 is covered by Medicare and other insurance providers. The pricing indicator code for this code is 57, which indicates that it is priced by other carriers. The multiple pricing indicator code is A, which means that it is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. Healthcare providers should refer to the Medicare Carriers Manual Reference Section Number 2130, 4450 for specific guidelines and instructions on billing and reimbursement for HCPCS code C8900.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code C8900 should be billed:

1. A patient with suspected abdominal vascular disease undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography with contrast to evaluate the blood vessels in the abdomen.
2. A patient with a known abdominal aortic aneurysm undergoes a follow-up MRI scan with contrast to monitor the size and condition of the aneurysm.
3. A patient with unexplained abdominal pain undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography with contrast to rule out any vascular abnormalities.
4. A patient with a history of abdominal trauma undergoes a magnetic resonance angiography with contrast to assess the extent of vascular damage.
5. A patient with a suspected liver tumor undergoes a preoperative magnetic resonance angiography with contrast to evaluate the blood supply to the tumor.