How To Use HCPCS Code G8984

HCPCS code G8984 describes the functional limitation of carrying, moving, and handling objects. This code is used to indicate the current status of the patient’s ability to perform these activities at the beginning of a therapy episode and at reporting intervals. It is important for medical coders to understand the specific meaning and usage of this code to ensure accurate documentation and billing.

1. What is HCPCS G8984?

HCPCS code G8984 is used to identify the functional limitation of carrying, moving, and handling objects. It provides information about the patient’s ability to perform these activities at the therapy episode outset and at reporting intervals. This code is specific to the current status of the patient’s functional limitation and is not used for other purposes.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code G8984 is “Carrying, moving & handling objects functional limitation, current status, at therapy episode outset and at reporting intervals.” The short description for this code is “Carry current status.”

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider assesses the patient’s ability to carry, move, and handle objects at the therapy episode outset.
2. The provider documents the patient’s current status regarding the functional limitation of carrying, moving, and handling objects.
3. If there are subsequent reporting intervals, the provider reassesses the patient’s ability and updates the current status accordingly.
4. The documentation should include specific details about the patient’s limitations and any relevant observations or findings.

4. When to use HCPCS code G8984

HCPCS code G8984 should be used when documenting the functional limitation of carrying, moving, and handling objects at the therapy episode outset and at reporting intervals. It is important to use this code accurately and only in the context of the patient’s ability to perform these activities. Other codes may be used for different functional limitations or activities.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code G8984, healthcare providers need to ensure proper documentation of the patient’s current status regarding the functional limitation of carrying, moving, and handling objects. The documentation should include detailed information about the patient’s limitations, any relevant observations or findings, and the therapy episode outset and reporting intervals.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code G8984 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 1, 2013. It has a pricing indicator code of 00, which means the service is not separately priced by Part B. There have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code. It is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions related to this code.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

Medicare and other insurance coverage for HCPCS code G8984 may vary. It is essential to check with the specific payer for their coverage policies and guidelines. The pricing indicator code and multiple pricing indicator code for this code indicate that it is not separately priced by Part B and the value is not established. Providers should follow the reimbursement guidelines provided by Medicare or other insurers.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code G8984 should be billed:

1. A patient with a recent injury to their upper extremities that limits their ability to carry, move, and handle objects.
2. A patient with a chronic condition that causes significant functional limitations in carrying, moving, and handling objects.
3. A patient recovering from a surgery that affects their ability to perform these activities.
4. A patient with a progressive disease that gradually impairs their ability to carry, move, and handle objects.
5. A patient undergoing therapy to improve their functional abilities in carrying, moving, and handling objects.