How To Use HCPCS Code E0148

HCPCS code E0148 describes a heavy-duty walker without wheels, which can be either rigid or folding. This code is used to identify the specific type of walker being provided to a patient. It is important for medical coders to understand the meaning and usage of this code in order to accurately document and bill for the services or supplies associated with it.

1. What is HCPCS E0148?

HCPCS code E0148 is used to identify a heavy-duty walker without wheels. This type of walker is designed to provide additional support and stability for individuals who require extra assistance with their mobility. It can be either rigid or folding, depending on the patient’s needs and preferences.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code E0148 is “Walker, heavy duty, without wheels, rigid or folding, any type, each.” The short description is “Enteral supp not otherwise c.” This description accurately reflects the specific characteristics and purpose of the walker associated with this code.

3. Procedure

1. When providing a heavy-duty walker without wheels to a patient, the healthcare provider should ensure that the walker meets the requirements outlined in HCPCS code E0148.
2. The provider should assess the patient’s mobility needs and determine if a heavy-duty walker without wheels is appropriate.
3. If the decision is made to provide the walker, the provider should select a walker that is either rigid or folding, based on the patient’s preferences and functional abilities.
4. The provider should properly fit the walker to the patient, ensuring that it is adjusted to the appropriate height and that any additional accessories or modifications are made as necessary.
5. The patient should be educated on how to safely use the walker and any specific instructions or precautions that need to be followed.

4. When to use HCPCS code E0148

HCPCS code E0148 should be used when providing a heavy-duty walker without wheels to a patient. This code is applicable in situations where the patient requires additional support and stability for their mobility, but does not require the use of wheels on the walker. It is important to ensure that the specific criteria outlined in the code description are met in order to accurately use this code.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for the provision of a heavy-duty walker without wheels using HCPCS code E0148, healthcare providers should ensure that the necessary documentation is in place. This may include:

• A detailed description of the walker provided, including whether it is rigid or folding
• Documentation of the patient’s mobility needs and the rationale for selecting a heavy-duty walker without wheels
• Any additional accessories or modifications made to the walker
• Evidence of patient education on the safe use of the walker

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code E0148 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. This code has been consistently used to identify heavy-duty walkers without wheels since its addition to the HCPCS.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code E0148 is eligible for coverage under 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 consult the Medicare Carriers Manual Reference Section Number 2130 for specific guidelines on billing and reimbursement for this code.

8. Examples

Here are some examples of when HCPCS code E0148 should be billed:

1. A patient with a history of falls and balance issues requires a heavy-duty walker without wheels to provide additional stability and support.
2. An individual with a musculoskeletal condition needs a rigid heavy-duty walker without wheels to assist with their mobility and reduce the risk of further injury.
3. A patient recovering from a lower extremity surgery requires a folding heavy-duty walker without wheels to aid in their rehabilitation and assist with their mobility.
4. An elderly individual with limited mobility due to a chronic condition requires a heavy-duty walker without wheels to maintain their independence and improve their overall quality of life.
5. A person with a physical disability requires a customized heavy-duty walker without wheels to accommodate their specific needs and provide optimal support and mobility assistance.