Calypso's intrafraction tracking, implantable transponders get new CPT codes
Hospitals and freestanding cancer centers now have two new reimbursement codes for coding Medicare claims associated with the use of the 4D localization system and implanted beacon transponders from Calypso Medical Technologies.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provided a new guidance on the correct coding for Calypso’s implantable beacon transponders. The company said that CMS recommended the use of HCPCS code A4648 and C1879 tissue markers associated with implantation procedures in hospital outpatient departments (C1879) and freestanding cancer centers or physician offices (A4648). HCPCS A4648 became effective Jan. 1.
“The majority of Calypso prostate cancer patients are Medicare beneficiaries. Assignment of unique codes is important; they facilitate the ability to track utilization and determine the value of new medical procedures,” according to Lynn M. Purdy, vice president of market development and reimbursement at Calypso.
Separately, the American Medical Association (AMA) recently assigned a new CPT code (0197T) to intrafraction tracking, identifying it as a new radiation therapy procedure, according to the Seattle-based company. Cancer centers can begin to use the code on claims effective Jan. 1, 2009 to capture daily use of services delivered via the Calypso 4D localization system.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provided a new guidance on the correct coding for Calypso’s implantable beacon transponders. The company said that CMS recommended the use of HCPCS code A4648 and C1879 tissue markers associated with implantation procedures in hospital outpatient departments (C1879) and freestanding cancer centers or physician offices (A4648). HCPCS A4648 became effective Jan. 1.
“The majority of Calypso prostate cancer patients are Medicare beneficiaries. Assignment of unique codes is important; they facilitate the ability to track utilization and determine the value of new medical procedures,” according to Lynn M. Purdy, vice president of market development and reimbursement at Calypso.
Separately, the American Medical Association (AMA) recently assigned a new CPT code (0197T) to intrafraction tracking, identifying it as a new radiation therapy procedure, according to the Seattle-based company. Cancer centers can begin to use the code on claims effective Jan. 1, 2009 to capture daily use of services delivered via the Calypso 4D localization system.