How To Use HCPCS Code G9171

HCPCS code G9171 describes the current status of voice functional limitation at the therapy episode outset and at reporting intervals. This code is used to identify the level of voice impairment or limitation a patient has at the beginning of therapy and throughout the treatment process. It provides valuable information for healthcare providers to assess the progress and effectiveness of voice therapy interventions.

1. What is HCPCS G9171?

HCPCS code G9171 is specifically used to indicate the voice functional limitation status of a patient at the therapy episode outset and at reporting intervals. It helps to track the progress of voice therapy and evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment provided. This code is essential for accurate documentation and billing purposes.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code G9171 is “Voice functional limitation, current status at therapy episode outset and at reporting intervals.” The short description for this code is “Voice current status.”

3. Procedure

1. During the therapy episode outset, the healthcare provider assesses the patient’s voice functional limitation.
2. The provider evaluates the patient’s voice quality, pitch, loudness, resonance, and overall vocal function.
3. At reporting intervals, the provider reassesses the patient’s voice functional limitation to monitor progress.
4. The provider may use standardized assessment tools or subjective observations to determine the current status of the patient’s voice.
5. The results of the assessment are documented in the patient’s medical records.

4. When to use HCPCS code G9171

HCPCS code G9171 should be used when documenting the current status of a patient’s voice functional limitation at the therapy episode outset and at reporting intervals. It is typically used in the context of voice therapy or treatment for voice disorders. This code helps to track the progress of the patient’s voice therapy and evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions provided.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code G9171, healthcare providers need to ensure proper documentation of the patient’s voice functional limitation status. The medical records should include detailed information about the assessment performed, the results obtained, and any relevant observations or findings. This documentation is crucial for accurate billing and reimbursement purposes.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code G9171 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 1, 2013. It has a coverage code of C, indicating that carrier judgment is used to determine coverage. The code does not have any maintenance actions, as indicated by the action code N. It is important to note that this code was terminated on December 31, 2019, and is no longer valid for use.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

Medicare and other insurance providers may have specific coverage policies for HCPCS code G9171. The pricing indicator code for this code is 00, which means the service is not separately priced by Part B. It is important to check with the respective payers to determine the coverage and reimbursement guidelines for this code.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code G9171 should be billed:

1. A patient with vocal cord nodules undergoes voice therapy. The code is used to document the initial voice functional limitation and subsequent progress.
2. A singer seeks voice therapy to improve vocal range and control. The code is used to track the changes in voice functional limitation throughout the therapy sessions.
3. A patient with vocal fold paralysis undergoes voice therapy to improve voice quality. The code is used to monitor the progress of vocal function over time.
4. A teacher with vocal strain seeks voice therapy to alleviate voice fatigue. The code is used to assess the initial voice functional limitation and evaluate the effectiveness of therapy interventions.
5. A patient with a history of laryngeal cancer undergoes voice therapy post-surgery. The code is used to track the changes in voice functional limitation during the rehabilitation process.