July 9, 2020

Question:
I’m new to vascular coding, can we bill for vascular access for a catheterization? The provider documents this, so I’m thinking I am missing a code.

Answer:

No, vascular access itself is not separately billable with a catheterization. However, the provider must document if access was obtained on the same side (ipsilateral) or on the opposite side (contralateral) of the body, so the proper catheterization codes can be billed.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 07/09/20.