CMS adds Category III codes in July update

Q: Have any new procedure codes been implemented for July?

A: As is their process, AMA released Category III CPT codes in January each year which are implemented in July. CMS is implementing nine new codes under the OPPS as of July 1. There is one HCPCS Level II code that is being deleted effective June 30, because it is being replaced with one of the new Category III codes. HCPCS code C9743 is being deleted and replaced with CPT code 0438T (transperineal placement of biodegradable material, peri-prostatic [via needle], single or multiple, includes image guidance).

For a full list of the new Category III CPT codes, see Table 2 in Transmittal 3523. 

Editor’s note: Denise Williams, RN, CPC-H, senior vice president of revenue integrity services at Revant Solutions, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, answered this question.