How To Use HCPCS Code G0278

HCPCS code G0278 describes a specific medical procedure known as iliac and/or femoral artery angiography. This code is used to identify the performance of non-selective angiography in the iliac and/or femoral arteries, which is done bilaterally or ipsilateral to catheter insertion. It is typically performed at the same time as cardiac catheterization and/or coronary angiography.

1. What is HCPCS G0278?

HCPCS code G0278 is a specific code used in medical coding to identify the procedure of iliac and/or femoral artery angiography. This code is used to accurately document and bill for the performance of this procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code G0278 is as follows: “Iliac and/or femoral artery angiography, non-selective, bilateral or ipsilateral to catheter insertion, performed at the same time as cardiac catheterization and/or coronary angiography, includes positioning or placement of the catheter in the distal aorta or ipsilateral femoral or iliac artery, injection of dye, production of permanent images, and radiologic supervision and interpretation (list separately in addition to primary procedure).” The short description of this code is “Iliac art angio, cardiac cath.”

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by positioning or placing the catheter in the distal aorta or ipsilateral femoral or iliac artery.
2. Once the catheter is in place, dye is injected into the artery.
3. The injection of dye allows for the visualization of the iliac and/or femoral arteries.
4. Permanent images are produced to document the findings of the angiography.
5. The procedure is performed under radiologic supervision and interpretation.

4. When to use HCPCS code G0278

HCPCS code G0278 should be used when the provider performs iliac and/or femoral artery angiography non-selectively, either bilaterally or ipsilateral to catheter insertion. This procedure is typically performed at the same time as cardiac catheterization and/or coronary angiography. It is important to note that this code should be listed separately in addition to the primary procedure.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code G0278, healthcare providers need to ensure that they document the performance of iliac and/or femoral artery angiography accurately. They should also include any relevant information regarding the positioning or placement of the catheter, injection of dye, production of permanent images, and radiologic supervision and interpretation. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements of the payer to ensure proper reimbursement.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code G0278 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 2003. It has an effective date of January 01, 2008. 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 G0278 is payable by Medicare. The pricing indicator code 11 indicates that the price for this procedure is established using national RVUs (Relative Value Units). The multiple pricing indicator code A indicates that this code is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. It is important to check with other insurance providers regarding their coverage and pricing policies for this specific procedure.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code G0278 should be billed:

1. A patient undergoes cardiac catheterization and iliac artery angiography at the same time.
2. A patient undergoes coronary angiography and femoral artery angiography at the same time.
3. A patient undergoes cardiac catheterization, coronary angiography, and bilateral iliac artery angiography simultaneously.
4. A patient undergoes cardiac catheterization and ipsilateral femoral artery angiography concurrently.
5. A patient undergoes coronary angiography and ipsilateral iliac artery angiography simultaneously.