Question
I am reading conflicting information regarding CPT code 92546, Sinusoidal Vertical Axis Rotational testing. I have read that audiologists may only bill 1x for this test, although other sources say 3x and even up to 5x. Can you please clarify the correct number of units that may be billed. Also, are you aware of any coding classes specifically for audiology in the near future? Thank you.
Answer
Regarding CPT code 92546, this code can be billed only once for the date of service. It is the procedure description for the computerized rotational chair. The code that can be billed up to four times for a date of service is 92543 for caloric testing. There you bill each irrigation. But 92546 can be billed only once.
There will be two presentations on CPT codes at ASHA in Atlanta. One is the update for new codes and current issues; the other presentation is a more detailed background history of CPT codes, how they are developed, appropriate use of ICD-9 codes, and HCPCS codes. Also, AAA convention invariably has one or two presentations on CPT coding in the spring.
Bio:
Robert C. Fifer, Ph.D. is currently the Director of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology at the Mailman Center for Child Development, Department of Pediatrics, University of Miami School of Medicine. He received his B.S. degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in Speech-Language Pathology with a minor in Deaf Education. His M.A. degree is from Central Michigan University in Audiology. And his Ph.D. degree is from Baylor College of Medicine in Bioacoustics (Audiology). Dr. Fifer's clinical and research interests focus on the areas of auditory evoked potentials, central auditory processing, early detection of hearing loss in children, and auditory anatomy and physiology. He is a member of ASHA's Heath Care Economics Committee.
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