Billing for Vascular Access

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 the vessel accessed , what side of the body, RT or LT y, and the end point of the catheter, so the proper catheterization codes can be billed. Remember, some interventions ( cervico-cerebral angiograms, carotid stenting on the same side as the stenting, and more) include catheterization and it would not be separately billable.