Question
What is the appropriate code for a baby who fails an OAE screening in the nursery? We have an ongoing battle with our coders concerning this. They want us to use V72.1. The problem is that when we see them for a further testing, if we have used this code, the insurance company won't pay for further testing. In the past we had been using 389.9 unspecified and there were no problems. Please advise.
Answer
Unspecified 4 digit codes can often be problematic, but if you've had no problems, "why fix it if it ain't broke?" Abnormal auditory perception, unspecified, a 5 digit code, (388.40) may also be helpful as well as V41.2 (problems with hearing). It may be advisable to contact the particular insurance carrier to see if they will divulge their preferences as to how to code this appropriately.
Debbie Abel, Au.D., is the former chair of the Coding and Practice Management Committee for the American Academy of Audiology and a former member of the AAA Ethical Practices Board. She currently is serving her first year of her term on the American Academy of Audiology and is the board liaison to the CPMC. She's been in private practice for 13 years in Alliance, OH.
Debbie Abel, AuD
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