Q&A: Billing for a radiology machine using film

Q: We have one older radiology machine that still uses film. We are working on replacing it and don’t use it very much. Is there anything special that we need to do when reporting studies done on “old faithful”? 

A: With the advent of more advanced and computerized technology in the radiology realm, most of the studies performed presently are done with the more advanced technology.

Beginning in January 2017, CMS has created modifier -FX (X-ray taken using film) to identify those procedures performed with older technology. Section 1833(t)(16)(F)(iv) of the Social Security Act contains provisions for a reduction in payment of 20% for those x-ray services utilizing film for 2017. The reduction will be applied when the service is separately payable. This modifier is mandatory for hospital reporting when the service involves film. 

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.

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