How To Use HCPCS Code G8734

HCPCS code G8734 describes an elder maltreatment screen that has been documented as negative, indicating that no signs of elder abuse or neglect were found during the screening process. This code is used to indicate that follow-up is not required for the patient. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code G8734, including its official description, procedure, when to use it, billing guidelines, historical information, Medicare and insurance coverage, and provide examples of when this code should be billed.

1. What is HCPCS G8734?

HCPCS code G8734 is used to identify an elder maltreatment screen that has been documented as negative, indicating that no signs of elder abuse or neglect were found during the screening process. This code is specific to the healthcare provider’s judgment and does not require any follow-up actions. It falls under the category of medical care services.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code G8734 is “Elder maltreatment screen documented as negative, follow-up is not required.” The short description for this code is “Doc neg eld req.”

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider performs an elder maltreatment screen on the patient.
2. The provider thoroughly assesses the patient for any signs or symptoms of elder abuse or neglect.
3. If no evidence of elder maltreatment is found, the provider documents the screen as negative.
4. No further follow-up actions are required for the patient.

4. When to use HCPCS code G8734

HCPCS code G8734 should be used when an elder maltreatment screen has been conducted, and the results of the screen indicate that no signs of elder abuse or neglect were found. This code is applicable when the healthcare provider determines that no follow-up actions are necessary based on their professional judgment.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code G8734, healthcare providers should ensure that the documentation clearly indicates that an elder maltreatment screen was performed and documented as negative. The documentation should also include any relevant details regarding the screening process and the provider’s professional judgment in determining that no follow-up actions are required.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code G8734 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 2012. As of January 01, 2023, there have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code. The pricing indicator code for HCPCS code G8734 is 00, which indicates that the service is not separately priced by Part B. This means that the service is either not covered, bundled with other services, or used only by Part A. The multiple pricing indicator code is 9, which means that the value for pricing is not established.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code G8734 is subject to the carrier’s judgment for coverage. Medicare and other insurance providers may have specific guidelines or policies regarding the coverage of elder maltreatment screens. It is important for healthcare providers to verify the coverage and reimbursement policies with the respective payers.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of scenarios where HCPCS code G8734 should be billed:

1. An elderly patient visits a primary care physician for a routine check-up. As part of the visit, the physician performs an elder maltreatment screen and documents it as negative.
2. A home healthcare nurse conducts a regular visit to an elderly patient’s home. During the visit, the nurse performs an elder maltreatment screen and finds no evidence of abuse or neglect.
3. An elderly patient is admitted to a hospital for a medical procedure. As part of the admission process, the hospital conducts an elder maltreatment screen, which yields negative results.
4. A social worker conducts an elder maltreatment screen during a home visit to an elderly patient. The screen shows no signs of elder abuse or neglect.
5. An elderly patient is referred to a geriatric specialist for a comprehensive evaluation. As part of the evaluation, the specialist performs an elder maltreatment screen, which comes out negative.