The medical field has transformed a lot, especially cardiology, thanks to remote patient monitoring, which lets doctors check on and treat heart health from a distance. This technology not only makes things easier for patients, but it also helps find early signs of heart problems, which means fewer trips to the hospital and better care overall.
As remote monitoring becomes more common, understanding the intricacies of medical billing is more important than ever. Accurate billing ensures healthcare providers get reimbursed correctly, especially when using advanced tools like remote cardiac monitoring.
One essential element in this process is CPT Code 93297, which is critical for billing cardiac event monitoring services. In this blog, we’ll dive into the 93297 CPT code description, why CPT Code 93297 matters, how it’s used in billing, and its role in optimizing patient care.
What is CPT Code 93297?
93297 CPT Code Description
CPT Code 93297 is used to report the technical component of remote cardiac monitoring, specifically in the context of implantable loop recorders (ILRs). An implantable loop recorder is a device that monitors the heart’s electrical activity over an extended period, typically to detect irregularities such as arrhythmias.
This device is particularly useful for patients who experience infrequent or unexplained symptoms, as it provides continuous, long-term monitoring.
Role in Remote Cardiac Device Monitoring
CPT Code 93297 is essential for remote cardiac monitoring, particularly for patients with implantable loop recorders, which continuously track heart activity and transmit data to healthcare providers. This code allows billing for monitoring services, including data receipt, analysis, and follow-up actions.
Frequency and Use Cases
CPT Code 93297 is used when patients with implantable loop recorders need ongoing monitoring to detect arrhythmias or other cardiac events.
It typically charges during the first few weeks of tracking after the device is implanted and then regularly checks on how well the device is working over time. The code covers situations like syncope that can’t be explained, palpitations, and other signs that regular tests might miss. Using this code for remote tracking helps providers give complete care while making sure they get paid correctly.
Key Differences Between CPT Code 93297 and 93298
CPT codes 93297 and 93298 are related to cardiac monitoring but cover different aspects.
CPT 93297 refers to the professional interpretation of data from a wearable or portable ECG monitor used to track heart rhythms, typically for arrhythmias.
CPT 93298 covers the technical component, including the recording and collection of data from the ECG device, excluding the interpretation. It pertains to the setup and maintenance of the monitoring device.
Examples of Scenarios Where Both Codes Can Be Used
In ambulatory ECG monitoring, CPT code 93298 is used for the technical component of placing, maintaining, and downloading the portable ECG device. After data collection, CPT code 93297 is used for reviewing and interpreting the results. In cases of arrhythmia or other heart conditions, the technical and professional components may be billed separately, depending on the service provider.
Who Performs the Service Under Each Code?
CPT Code 93297 refers to the professional component, performed by a cardiologist or trained physician, who interprets the ECG data. CPT Code 93298 covers the technical component, typically performed by a technician, involving setup, patient instruction, device operation, and data retrieval.
Billing and Documentation Guidelines for CPT Code 93297
When billing CPT Code 93297, follow these key guidelines to ensure proper reimbursement and avoid denials:
93297 Billing Guidelines: Frequency, Bundling, and Documentation
Frequency Limitations: CPT 93297 can typically be billed once per patient, as it pertains to the interpretation of data from a specific monitoring period. Always check payer-specific frequency policies.
Bundling Rules: CPT 93297 may be bundled with codes for related cardiac monitoring (e.g., CPT 93298), but separate billing may be allowed if additional diagnostic procedures are performed. Review payer-specific bundling rules.
Documentation Tips: Detailed documentation is essential, including patient condition, monitoring period, ECG data interpretation, and follow-up actions.
Payer Policies and Compliance
Payer policies may require pre-authorization or medical necessity documentation for CPT 93297. Compliance with payer frequency limitations and documentation requirements can help avoid denials.
Accurate Reporting to Avoid Denials
Properly report CPT 93297 to prevent claim denials. Ensure that the documentation aligns with the services provided and meets payer guidelines.
Reimbursement for CPT 93297
Medicare: Reimbursement depends on medical necessity, as outlined in NCD or LCD guidelines. Rates may vary based on the patient’s needs and test location.
Commercial Payers: Reimbursement is based on the payer’s contract and the clinical encounter.
National Average Rates: Typically between $80 to $120, but rates may vary depending on the payer and setting (e.g., hospital outpatient vs. independent labs).
Concluding Words
CPT code 93297 is essential for billing remote cardiac monitoring services, such as implantable loop recorders. Proper use of this code ensures accurate billing, maximized reimbursements, and compliance with payer guidelines.
As coding standards change, it’s important to keep up with the latest changes for correct billing, especially for codes like CPT 93297.
Contact HMS Group Inc. if you require assistance with billing or coding, even for complicated cases involving 93297 CPT code reimbursement. Our experts can walk you through the newest changes, making sure that you can get reimbursed and follow the rules.
