Does J98.3 require prior authorization?

No, J98.3 does not require prior authorization (medium confidence). Covered without prior authorization by at least one policy, though another does not cover it.

Backwork Sign up free

`J98.3`, Compensatory emphysema

ICD-10-CM

Prior Authorization

No Prior Auth Required

Covered without prior authorization by at least one policy, though another does not cover it (medium confidence)

Documentation Required

When a referring/ordering physician is required, the referring/ordering physician’s name and NPI must be reported on the claim.
Diagnosis code(s) must best describe the patient’s condition for which the service was performed and a valid ICD-10-CM code is required on the claim.
For an evaluation-only episode, the evaluation serves as the plan of care if it contains a diagnosis or a description from which a referring physician/NPP may determine a diagnosis, and the referral/order certifies the evaluation is needed.
When a qualified professional allows a student to participate, the qualified professional must be present in the room, direct the service and make skilled judgments, not be treating another patient or performing other tasks, and must sign all documentation appropriately.

Key Coverage Criteria

Skilled therapy services are covered when the skills of a qualified therapist are necessary to improve the patient’s current condition, to maintain the patient’s current condition, or to prevent or slow further deterioration.
Rehabilitative therapy is covered when therapist skills are necessary to safely and effectively furnish a recognized therapy service with the goal of improving an impairment or functional limitation.
Maintenance therapy is covered only when an individualized clinical assessment documents that specialized judgment, knowledge, and skills of a qualified therapist are necessary to perform the maintenance program safely and effectively.
Physical therapy (CPT 97161-97163) and occupational therapy (CPT 97165-97167) evaluations are covered; when an evaluation is the only service in an episode, the evaluation serves as the plan of care if it contains a diagnosis or a description sufficient for the referring physician/NPP to determine a diagnosis.
Therapeutic procedures whose principal aim is to treat a respiratory impairment must be billed using HCPCS codes G0237, G0238, or G0239.
Therapy services are covered when the medical record and claim consistently and accurately document that the services are covered and medically necessary.

15 Active Policies

A56566, Billing and Coding: Outpatient Physical and Occupational Therapy Services

NOVITAS-JH-L35434, Oximetry Services

NOVITAS-JH-L35049, Monitored Anesthesia Care

NOVITAS-JL-L35049, Monitored Anesthesia Care

Have a follow-up question?

Ask Backwork about documentation requirements, denial risks, or coverage in your state.

Ask Backwork about J98.3 Sign up free

J98.3, Compensatory emphysema