How To Use HCPCS Code C8928

HCPCS code C8928 describes the procedure of transthoracic echocardiography with contrast, or without contrast followed by with contrast, real-time with image documentation (2d), including m-mode recording, when performed, during rest and cardiovascular stress test using treadmill, bicycle exercise and/or pharmacologically induced stress, with interpretation and report. This code is used to identify and bill for this specific diagnostic procedure.

1. What is HCPCS C8928?

HCPCS code C8928 is a specific code used in medical coding to identify and bill for the procedure of transthoracic echocardiography with contrast, or without contrast followed by with contrast, real-time with image documentation (2d), including m-mode recording, when performed, during rest and cardiovascular stress test using treadmill, bicycle exercise and/or pharmacologically induced stress, with interpretation and report. This code is used to accurately represent and document the services provided by healthcare providers.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code C8928 is “Transthoracic echocardiography with contrast, or without contrast followed by with contrast, real-time with image documentation (2d), includes m-mode recording, when performed, during rest and cardiovascular stress test using treadmill, bicycle exercise and/or pharmacologically induced stress, with interpretation and report.” The short description for this code is “Enteral supp not otherwise c.”

3. Procedure

1. The procedure of transthoracic echocardiography with contrast, or without contrast followed by with contrast, involves the use of ultrasound technology to create real-time images of the heart. This procedure is performed by a trained healthcare professional, typically a cardiologist or a cardiac sonographer.
2. The patient is positioned on an examination table, and a gel is applied to the chest area to improve the quality of the ultrasound images.
3. The healthcare provider then uses a handheld device called a transducer, which emits sound waves and captures the echoes as they bounce back from the heart.
4. If contrast is used, it is administered either orally or intravenously to enhance the visualization of the heart structures.
5. The provider moves the transducer across the chest to obtain different views of the heart, including the chambers, valves, and blood flow.
6. During a cardiovascular stress test, the patient may be asked to exercise on a treadmill or a stationary bicycle, or they may receive pharmacologically induced stress to evaluate the heart’s response to increased workload.
7. The provider records the images and interprets the findings to generate a report.

4. When to use HCPCS code C8928

HCPCS code C8928 is used when a healthcare provider performs transthoracic echocardiography with contrast, or without contrast followed by with contrast, during rest and cardiovascular stress test using treadmill, bicycle exercise and/or pharmacologically induced stress. This code should be used when the procedure is performed for diagnostic purposes to evaluate the structure and function of the heart, as well as to assess its response to stress.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code C8928, healthcare providers need to ensure that the documentation supports the performance of transthoracic echocardiography with contrast, or without contrast followed by with contrast, during rest and cardiovascular stress test using treadmill, bicycle exercise and/or pharmacologically induced stress. The documentation should include the images obtained, the interpretation of the findings, and a detailed report of the procedure. It is important to follow the specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate reimbursement.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code C8928 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1985. It has an effective date of January 01, 1996. There have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code C8928 is covered by Medicare. 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 it is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. Healthcare providers should refer to the Medicare Carriers Manual Reference Section Number 2130 for more information on coverage and reimbursement.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code C8928 should be billed:

1. A patient undergoes transthoracic echocardiography with contrast during a cardiovascular stress test on a treadmill to assess their heart function during exercise.
2. A patient receives transthoracic echocardiography without contrast followed by with contrast during a rest period to evaluate the structure and function of their heart.
3. A patient undergoes transthoracic echocardiography with contrast during a pharmacologically induced stress test to assess their heart’s response to medication.
4. A patient undergoes transthoracic echocardiography without contrast followed by with contrast during a cardiovascular stress test on a stationary bicycle to evaluate their heart function during exercise.
5. A patient receives transthoracic echocardiography with contrast during a rest period to assess the blood flow in their heart.